The Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and the Lokpal are three key anti-corruption agencies in India. While each agency has its own mandate and functions, they are interconnected and interdependent in their efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the Indian government.
Relationship between the CVC, CBI, and Lokpal
- CVC and CBI: The CVC and CBI have a complementary relationship. The CVC is responsible for investigating complaints of corruption against government officials, while the CBI is responsible for investigating criminal cases, including those related to corruption.
- CVC and Lokpal: The CVC and Lokpal have an overlapping relationship. Both agencies are responsible for investigating complaints of corruption against government officials, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, and Members of Parliament.
- CBI and Lokpal: The CBI and Lokpal have a cooperative relationship. The Lokpal can direct the CBI to investigate cases of corruption, and the CBI can provide investigative support to the Lokpal.
Challenges in Coordination and Cooperation
- Lack of Clear Mandate: The lack of a clear mandate and functions for each agency can lead to confusion and overlap.
- Inadequate Resources: Inadequate resources, including funding, personnel, and infrastructure, can hinder the effectiveness of these agencies.
- Lack of Autonomy: The lack of autonomy for these agencies can undermine their independence and effectiveness.
Measures to Promote Transparency and Accountability
- Clear Mandate and Functions: A clear mandate and functions should be defined for each agency to avoid confusion and overlap.
- Adequate Resources: Adequate resources, including funding, personnel, and infrastructure, should be provided to these agencies to enhance their effectiveness.
- Autonomy and Independence: Autonomy and independence should be ensured for these agencies to promote transparency and accountability.
- Coordination and Cooperation: Coordination and cooperation between these agencies should be promoted to avoid duplication of efforts and enhance effectiveness.
While there are challenges in coordination and cooperation between these agencies, measures can be taken to promote transparency and accountability, including defining a clear mandate and functions, providing adequate resources, ensuring autonomy and independence, and promoting coordination and cooperation.