Hire independent experts to finish corruption probe on time: Central Vigilance Commission

NEW DELHI: Citing delay in probe into cases of corruption in construction projects, the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has asked government departments to hire independent and reliable engineers to finish these investigations on time.

The Chief Technical Examination (CTE) wing of the Commission conducts intensive examination of works or procurement of various central government departments or organisations.

Some of the observations arising out of CTE inspections are converted into vigilance cases and referred to the Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs), who act as distant arm of the CVC to check corruption, for conducting investigation and to identify the officers responsible for the lapses.

"For the purpose of investigation, an independent and reliable engineer, if considered necessary can also be appointed or hired for assisting the Chief Vigilance Officers," the CVC said in an order.

The Commission said of late it has observed that the reports of CVOs and replies to such CTE-related inspection matters are unduly delayed by the ministries or departments.

"There are inordinate delays in processing such matters or furnishing replies to the Commission resulting sometimes in retirement of suspected officials concerned. Moreover, the delays have been viewed adversely by courts," it said.

The CVC has asked all its CVOs to expeditiously finalise the probe in pending corruption cases referred to them, the order said.