Supreme Court Split on Section 17A of Prevention of Corruption Act and Its Implications

The Supreme Court recently delivered a split verdict on Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, which requires prior approval for investigating public servants regarding official decisions. Justice B V Nagarathna ruled the provision unconstitutional, citing risks of executive protectionism, while Justice K V Viswanathan upheld it with conditions for independent oversight. The case will be referred to a larger bench. Data shows rising corruption cases but more acquittals than convictions since the Act's enactment and amendments.