What is Corruption?
Corruption is the abuse of power, position, or resources for personal gain. It includes bribery, embezzlement, fraud, nepotism, extortion, money laundering, and misuse of public office. Corruption weakens democracy, erodes trust in institutions, and hampers economic growth.
According to Transparency International, corruption is a global issue, and India ranks among the countries where corruption is perceived as a major problem.
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Forms of Corruption
- Bribery – Offering money, goods, or favors to influence decisions.
- Embezzlement – Theft of public or corporate funds.
- Nepotism & Cronyism – Favoring relatives or associates in jobs/contracts.
- Extortion – Using threats or power to obtain money or services.
- Fraud – Deception to secure personal or financial benefits.
Impact of Corruption
- Political – Undermines democracy and weakens public trust.
- Economic – Discourages investment, increases costs, and reduces growth.
- Social – Creates inequality, denies rights, and fosters injustice.
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Legal Framework Against Corruption in India
India has a multi-pronged approach to tackling corruption, with various laws, agencies, and institutions.
Key Anti-Corruption Laws in India
- Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 – Main anti-corruption law in India.
- Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 – Establishes independent bodies to investigate corruption cases.
- Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 – Protects individuals who expose corruption.
- Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 – Prevents illegal property transactions.
- Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 – Curbs money laundering linked to corruption.
Key Anti-Corruption Bodies in India
- Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) – Supervises corruption investigations.
- Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) – Investigates major corruption cases.
- Enforcement Directorate (ED) – Prosecutes money laundering and economic crimes.
- Lokpal & Lokayuktas – Investigates corruption among public officials.
Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (Full Text)
International Anti-Corruption Framework
Corruption is not just a national issue but a global concern. Various international organizations work towards anti-corruption measures.
Major Global Anti-Corruption Conventions
- United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), 2003
- First legally binding international treaty against corruption.
- India ratified UNCAC in 2011.
- OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, 1997
- Prevents bribery of foreign officials in international business transactions.
- Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
- Combats money laundering and terrorist financing, closely linked to corruption.
United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) Full Text
Case Laws on Corruption in India
- State of Maharashtra v. Padma Narayan More (1999) – Held that a public servant can be convicted of corruption based on circumstantial evidence.
- C.S. Krishnamurthy v. State of Karnataka (2005) – Stressed the need for strict action against public servants involved in corruption.
- Subramanian Swamy v. Manmohan Singh (2012) – Supreme Court ruled that sanction to prosecute public servants in corruption cases should not be delayed.
Challenges in Fighting Corruption in India
- Delays in Prosecution – Corruption trials take years, reducing deterrence.
- Political Interference – Agencies like CBI often face political pressure.
- Weak Whistleblower Protection – Fear of retaliation discourages reporting.
- Lack of Public Awareness – Many citizens are unaware of their rights and legal remedies.
Recent Developments in Anti-Corruption Laws
- Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 – Strengthened laws against bribery and made giving bribes an offense.
- Digital India & E-Governance – Use of technology to reduce bureaucratic corruption.
- Whistleblower Protections Strengthened – More safeguards added for informants.
Conclusion
Corruption is a serious crime that affects governance, economy, and society. India has strong anti-corruption laws, but their enforcement remains a challenge. Strict implementation, judicial efficiency, digital transparency, and public participation are key to eliminating corruption.