CVC relaxes rules to speed up probe in corruption cases

NEW DELHI: The CVC today relaxed a rule to do away with second stage consultation with it before imposing punishment on corrupt officials, in order to speed up probe in corruption cases, especially against senior officials in the PSUs and banks.

The CVC is being consulted at two stages in vigilance cases or disciplinary proceedings - first advice is obtained on the investigation reports and the second advice is obtained before a final decision is taken at the conclusion of the proceedings.

The anti-corruption watchdog has also authorised Chief Vigilance Officers, who act as distant arm of CVC, or disciplinary authority to impose a penalty which is in line with the Commission's first stage advice in respect of officers falling under its jurisdiction.

"However, the CVO should forward an action taken report along with a copy of Investigating Officers findings and the final order issued by DA in all such cases of officers for Commission's record," the CVC said in an order issued today.

It is further clarified that all such cases, where the disciplinary authority proposes to take any action which is at variance with the Commission's first stage advice, would continue to be referred to the CVC for obtaining second stage advice, it said.

The Commission expects that the CVO would be in a position to exercise proper check and supervision over such cases and would ensure that the cases are disposed off expeditiously within the time norms, the order said.