Central Vigilance Commission (CVC): Mission, Composition & Tenure

Introduction

It is the main agency for preventing corruption in the Central government. It was established in 1964 by an executive resolution of the Central government. It was recommended by the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption  (1962-64). Later, it was conferred statutory status by the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003 (CVC Act, 2003).

Working of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

• Annual Report: Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has to present annually to the President a report on its performance. The President places this report before each House of Parliament.
• Power of Civil Court: Power to regulate its own procedure. The powers of a civil court and its proceedings have a judicial character.
• Advisory Functions: The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) advises the Central government on actions to be taken based on inquiry reports from agencies. 
  • The government must consider the advice, but if it disagrees, it must provide written reasons to the CVC.

Functions of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

• Inquiry or Investigation Initiation: To initiate an inquiry or conduct an investigation based on a referral from the Central government, where there are allegations against a public servant employed by the Central Government or its authorities, for having committed an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
• Prevention of Corruption Act Investigations: To exercise superintendence over the functioning of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (CBI) insofar as it relates to the investigation of offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
• Review of Pending Prosecution: To review the progress of applications pending with the competent authorities for sanction of prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
• Consultation Requirement With Central Vigilance Commission (CVC): The Central Government is required to consult the CVC in making rules and regulations governing the vigilance and disciplinary matters relating to the members of Central Services and All India Services.
• Role as Whistleblower Agency: The CVC has been designated as the agency to receive and act on complaints or disclosure on any allegation of corruption or misuse of office from whistleblowers under the “Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informers’ Resolution” (PlOPI), 2004, which is popularly known as “WhistleBlowers” Resolution.
• Motivated or Vexatious Complaints: The CVC is also empowered as the only designated agency to take action against complainants making motivated or vexatious complaints.

Conclusion

• The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) serves as a crucial institution in India’s fight against corruption and maladministration. 
• Empowered to receive complaints, investigate allegations, and ensure accountability, the CVC plays a pivotal role in promoting integrity and transparency within government institutions. 
• Through its oversight, vigilance, and whistleblower protection mechanisms, the CVC contributes significantly to upholding the principles of good governance and strengthening public trust in the administration.

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