The central theme of the notable development is the recent appointment of Suresh N Patel as the new chief of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). This action carries significant weight for the Indian government and the operations of national departments. The article explores the characteristics, functions, and importance of the Central Vigilance Commission and details the service conditions for the Chief Vigilance Commissioner.
Understanding the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
The Central Vigilance Commission was established by the Indian government in 1964 following the guidance of the Committee on Prevention of Corruption, chaired by Shri K. Santhanam. The role of CVC is to provide advice and direction to Central Government agencies on matters related to vigilance.
Designed to function independently from any executive control, CVC oversees all vigilance activity within the Central Government. It further advises relevant authorities in Central Government organizations on the planning, execution, review, and reformation of their vigilance work.
The Central Vigilance Commission Act, enacted in 2003, grants statutory status to the CVC, making it an independent body accountable only to Parliament. As a routine, the CVC submits its report to the President of India.
Composition of Central Vigilance Commission
The CVC is composed of the Central Vigilance Commissioner, who serves as the chairperson, and no more than two additional Vigilance Commissioners, who serve as members.
Functions of the Central Vigilance Commission
The primary responsibility of the CVC is to receive complaints relating to corruption or misuse of office and subsequently recommend suitable action. The Central government, Lokpal, and whistleblowers are among the entities and individuals who can lodge complaints with the CVC.
It’s important to note that the CVC is not an investigative agency. Instead, they liaise with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or Chief Vigilance Officers (CVO) in government offices to conduct investigations. Additionally, CVC has the power to probe into alleged offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 committed by specific categories of public servants.
Service Conditions for the Chief Vigilance Commissioner
The President of India appoints the Central Vigilance Commissioner based on the recommendation of a three-member committee, which includes the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs (MHA), and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.
The Chief Vigilance Commissioner holds the office for a term of four years. The President, on the grounds of misbehaviour, can remove or suspend the commissioner, but only if the Supreme Court, after conducting an inquiry into the case, supports such action. In addition to this, the Chief Vigilance Commissioner can also be removed for proven misbehaviour or incapacity if the Supreme Court inquiry confirms his guilt. He/she also holds the right to resign by submitting a formal resignation letter to the President.
