A Study on the Central Vigilance Commission in India

Author

Priyadharshini M


Abstract

 The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is an important institution established to promote integrity, transparency and accountability in public administration in India. Initially established in 1964 on the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee, the CVC was granted statutory status under the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003. The Commission plays a significant role in supervising vigilance administration, advising government organisations on vigilance matters and monitoring corruption-related investigations. This study examines the origin, composition, powers, functions and jurisdiction of the Central Vigilance Commission within the framework of Administrative Law. It also analyses the relationship between the CVC and other investigative and administrative authorities, particularly the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The study further considers the role of the CVC in ensuring administrative accountability, preventing corruption and promoting good governance. Through an examination of relevant legal provisions and judicial decisions, the study evaluates the effectiveness and limitations of the Commission. It concludes by suggesting measures to strengthen its independence, efficiency and effectiveness in maintaining integrity in public administration. The study also focuses on the challenges faced by the Commission in exercising its statutory functions and examines the extent to which its recommendations contribute to effective administrative control. It further considers the importance of institutional independence, procedural fairness and coordination with other anti-corruption agencies. The study highlights the need for strengthening the existing vigilance mechanism to ensure timely action against corruption and administrative misconduct. Overall, the study seeks to assess the effectiveness of the CVC in promoting ethical, transparent and accountable governance in India. The study further examines the role of the CVC in promoting ethical standards among public servants and strengthening preventive vigilance mechanisms. It considers how effective monitoring of administrative activities can reduce opportunities for corruption and misuse of public resources. The study also highlights the significance of public complaints, vigilance awareness and institutional oversight in maintaining administrative integrity. Particular attention is given to the relationship between the CVC and the CBI and the limitations on the Commission’s powers under the existing legal framework. The study also considers the role of judicial decisions in shaping the functioning and independence of vigilance institutions. Finally, it emphasises the need for continuous reforms, technological advancement and stronger enforcement mechanisms to make the CVC more effective in achieving transparent, accountable and corruption-free administration.



Keywords

Central Vigilance Commission, Administrative Law, Vigilance Administration, Corruption, Accountability, Transparency, Good Governance, CVC Act, 2003.



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References


ACTS AND STATUTES

  1. The Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, Act No. 45 of 2003
  2. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
  3. The Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946.

GOVERNMENT REPORTS AND OFFICIAL SOURCES

  1. Central Vigilance Commission, Annual Reports, Government of India.
  2. Central Vigilance Commission, Vigilance Manual
  3. Law Commission of India.

BOOKS

  1. P. Massey, Administrative Law, Eastern Book Company.
  2. P. Jain & S.N. Jain, Principles of Administrative Law, LexisNexis.
  3. K. Takwani, Lectures on Administrative Law, Eastern Book Company.
  4. P. Sathe, Administrative Law, LexisNexis.

WEBLIOGRAPHY

  1. https://cvc.gov.in
  2. https://indiacode.nic.in
  3. https://www.sci.gov.in
  4. https://indiakanoon.org
  5. https://www.manupatra.com

 

 

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