Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act, 1988
News –
- According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Karnataka recorded the third-highest number of registered corruption cases (334) nationally.
The Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act, 1988
- It is a federal law enforced in Karnataka primarily by the Karnataka Lokayukta.
Core Offences & Penalties
- Taking Bribes (Section 7): Public servants face 3 to 7 years in prison plus a fine.
- Giving Bribes (Section 8): Bribe-givers or companies face up to 7 years in prison.
- Criminal Misconduct (Section 13): Misappropriation of property or illicit enrichment carries 4 to 10 years in prison.
Strict Legal Conditions
- Demand & Acceptance: The Karnataka High Court rules that prosecutors must prove both a demand was made and a bribe was accepted; missing either invalidates the case.
- Prior Sanction (Section 17A): Police cannot investigate a public servant’s official decisions without prior approval from the government.
Key Enforcement Authority
- Karnataka Lokayukta: The state’s independent anti-corruption ombudsman handling traps, raids, and prosecutions.
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