New Delhi, Dec 8: As the debate goes on over bringing CBI under the ambit of proposed Lokpal, the investigating agency wants it should be given more functional autonomy and the process for selection of its chief should be made more “rigorous and transparent”.
The agency is making a strong pitch for ensuring that its legal authority and operational effectiveness are not diluted when the proposed Lokpal becomes a reality, CBI sources said.
Claiming that CBI is capable of handling the menace of graft in the country, they said it should be the “natural choice” for investigating corruption cases.
“In fact, this is the opportune moment to instill greater functional autonomy into CBI while retaining its present structure and independence,” a senior official not willing to be quoted said.
The officials said as prescribed by the Supreme Court in Vineet Narain case, selection of Director CBI may be made from a panel of serving IPS officers on the basis of seniority, integrity and experience in investigation and anti-corruption work.
The officials also suggested that the Selection Committee that finalises a name for the post of CBI Director, may be reconstituted to include the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and any other Constitutional authority.
“Further, a fixed longer tenure for Director, CBI would also act as a strong safeguard against interference and foster more accountability,” said another official.
Team Anna member Kiran Bedi had advocated bringing the CBI under the ambit of Lokpal yesterday saying it would make anti-corruption efforts more effective.
