The Central Vigilance Commission, concerned at attempts by the government to dilute its mandate to check corruption in the higher bureaucracy, has asked the Centre to ensure its recommendations on penal action against officials be implemented without delay. It says action should be taken and the matter not be referred to yet another panel of top officials.
Taking strong exception to this practice, the CVC said it should be stopped immediately. It reminded the government that its decisions were final and not subject to further review by any other agency.
The anti-corruption watchdog noted the delaying tactics often used by the Centre when the CVC recommended action against senior officials, particularly those of secretary and additional secretary rank, when the matter was referred to committee of secretaries instead of action being taken.
When the Central Vigilance Commission recommended action against senior officials of public sector undertakings or nationalised banks, this was again often referred to a committee of senior officials.
“This is wrong as according to powers vested in the CVC, its decision is final and should be implemented without delay. If required, the concerned official can take legal recourse later,” a top CVC official said.