Definition
Central Vigilance Commission.
Apex body for addressing corruption in central government.
Statutory Definition
Central Vigilance Commission Act.
Etymology & Origin
Established initially via a government resolution in 1964 on the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption.
Full Legal Analysis
The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the apex administrative integrity institution in India. It is an independent body, free from executive control, responsible for monitoring all vigilance activities under the Central Government and advising various authorities in planning, executing, and reviewing their vigilance work.
The CVC does not investigate criminal cases directly; instead, it exercises superintendence over the functioning of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The Commission provides 'vigilance clearance' for senior bureaucratic appointments and promotions. If a department wishes to take disciplinary action against a senior officer, it must consult the CVC. Its advice, while technically advisory, is rarely ignored without compelling reasons.
The Supreme Court directed that the CVC be given statutory status to ensure its independence and to insulate the CBI from political interference in corruption probes.
Advocates representing civil servants must navigate CVC guidelines carefully, as procedural irregularities in seeking CVC advice can sometimes vitiate departmental disciplinary actions.
This Term in Indian Statutes
Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, 2003
"Constitution of Central Vigilance Commission."
Provides the legal foundation and independence for the apex anti-corruption advisory body.
