ANTI-CORRUPTION LAWS IN INDIA: LEGAL STRIKES AGAINST DIRTY HANDS

Corruption remains one of the most pervasive challenges in India, undermining governance, economic growth, and public trust. Over the decades, the Indian legal system has developed a multi-layered framework to curb corruption, combining constitutional mandates, statutory provisions, and institutional mechanisms. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended in 2018) forms the cornerstone, criminalising bribery by public servants and introducing liability for commercial organisations. Complementary statutes such as the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014, the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 strengthen enforcement. Judicial pronouncements have reinforced accountability, while constitutional principles under Articles 14, 19, and 21 emphasise transparency and fairness in public administration. Institutions like the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), Lokpal, and state-level Lokayuktas provide oversight. Despite this robust framework, enforcement challenges, procedural delays, and political influence hinder effectiveness. Strengthening institutional autonomy, promoting digital governance, and ensuring protection for whistleblowers remain crucial for combating corruption. India’s anti-corruption regime continues to evolve, requiring sustained legal and policy reforms to align with global standards of integrity and accountability.