CBI RECRUITMENT: POLITY
NEWS: House panel recommends framework for direct recruitment in CBI, law to probe national security cases without general consent from states
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?
The Parliamentary Standing Committee recommended an independent recruitment framework and reduced reliance on deputation for the CBI, along with empowering it to investigate national security matters without state consent. The CBI faces challenges including manpower shortages, lack of autonomy, and operational roadblocks due to state consent requirements.
Key Recommendation by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice
• Independent Recruitment Framework for CBI:
• A significant portion of CBI posts is currently filled on deputation from various organizations, which can affect the agency’s autonomy and effectiveness.
• The committee recommended that the CBI develop an independent recruitment framework to address this issue.
• Direct recruitment should be done through established channels such as SSC, UPSC, or through a dedicated CBI examination.
• Lateral Entry for Specialists: The committee recommended the inclusion of lateral entry for specialists in fields like cybercrime, forensics, financial fraud, and legal domains to bolster the agency’s expertise.
• Deputation Limitations: Deputation should be limited to senior-level positions, allowing the CBI to develop in-house expertise and reducing its reliance on external experts.
• State Consent and National Security:
• The committee recommended the enactment of a new law that would empower the CBI to investigate matters related to national security and integrity without needing state consent.
• The law should include safeguards to ensure impartiality and prevent state governments from feeling undermined or powerless.
• Permanent Cadre and Career Progression:
• The committee recommended the establishment of a permanent cadre within the CBI, ensuring a structured career progression system. This would help provide stability and enhance the agency's long-term functioning.
Issues Faced by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
• Lack of Autonomy & Effectiveness:
• The CBI operates under the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act of 1946, which restricts its autonomy.
• The requirement of state government consent for certain investigations often creates operational roadblocks and hampers the agency’s ability to function independently.
• Manpower Shortages:
• Nearly 16% of the CBI’s sanctioned posts are vacant, leading to significant operational challenges. These shortages impact the agency's ability to investigate and tackle cases efficiently.
• CBI Deputations Issue:
• The CBI faces difficulties in filling posts via deputations, particularly for ranks below the inspector level.
• The shortage of suitable candidates from state police forces further exacerbates this issue, leaving many key positions vacant or understaffed.
About the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
• Establishment and Role:
• The CBI was established in 1963 following the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption.
• It is India's specialized investigative agency tasked with handling high-profile crimes, corruption cases, and national security matters.
• Ministry and Jurisdiction:
• The CBI operates under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
• Its jurisdiction is limited as it requires state government consent for investigating crimes not covered by its general consent.
• States with Withdrawn Consent: Eight states have withdrawn their consent, restricting the CBI's ability to probe certain cases within those states.
• Leadership:
• The CBI is headed by a Director, who is appointed for a tenure of two years.
• The appointment is made by the central government based on recommendations from a three-member Appointment Committee.
These measures and challenges emphasize the need for a more robust, independent, and well-equipped CBI to perform its role effectively in tackling corruption, crime, and national security issues.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/house-panel-framework-direct-recruitment-cbi-9909910/