The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which requires prior government approval to investigate public servants for official duties. Justice B.V. Nagarathna ruled the section unconstitutional, stating it protects the corrupt and forecloses inquiry. Justice K.V. Viswanathan upheld its validity, provided sanction decisions are made by the Lokpal or Lokayukta. Due to the disagreement, the case has been referred to a larger bench for a final decision.