The recent adaptation of guidelines by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has stirred up significant attention. The modifications particularly target the transfer, posting, and tenure of officials within the vigilance unit of government organisations. Why this sudden change? Let’s delve into understanding this policy shift.
Revised Guidelines for Government Officials
The CVC’s new stipulations restrict an official’s tenure in a vigilance unit at one location to three years maximum, including lower-level functionaries. However, officials can extend their tenure for another three years if willing to relocate. This initiative encourages rotation in the workforce and combats stagnancy.
Moreover, those who have spent over five years in vigilance units at the same location are to be relocated urgently. After serving in the vigilance unit, an official must observe a mandatory ‘cooling-off’ period of three years before resuming roles within the sector.
Rationale Behind the Revisions
Why impose these restrictions? Their purpose is twofold: prevention of corruption and promotion of transparency. Prolonged stay in sensitive positions could lead to vested interests and unnecessary allegations. Hence, the institutionalised rotation is meant to encourage transparency, objectivity, and consistency.
Understanding the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
The Central Vigilance Commission, entrusted with the role of being the apex vigilance institution, is free from any executive authority. This independent body is responsible for monitoring all vigilance activity under the Central Government. It assists Central Government organizations in planning, executing, reviewing, and reforming their vigilance work.
A Brief on the Commission’s Background
The formation of the CVC was recommended by the Committee on Prevention of Corruption, resulting in its establishment in February 1964. The CVC Act of 2003 bestowed statutory status upon the CVC. Now, it stands as an independent body, solely accountable to Parliament, and submits its report to the President of India.
Functions and Responsibilities
The CVC supervises the functions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (CBI) concerning investigations under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The commission receives complaints on corruption or misuse of office and recommends action. Various bodies, including Central government, Lokpal, and whistle-blowers, can approach the CVC.
Interestingly, the CVC depends on the Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) of central organisations and the CBI for investigative matters, as it does not possess its own investigation wing.
Structure and Composition of the Commission
The CVC is a multi-member body comprising a Central Vigilance Commissioner (Chairperson) and a maximum of 2 Vigilance Commissioners (Members). They are appointed by the President of India based on a committee’s recommendations, which includes the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha.
Commissioners serve a term of 4 years or until they reach 65 years of age, whichever comes earlier. Removal grounds include bankruptcy, infirmity of body or mind, criminal conviction, involvement in paid employment, or acquisition of financial interests that may affect their judgement. Misconduct or incapacity findings from a Supreme Court inquiry can also lead to removal. Commissioners may also resign by writing to the President.
