India Anti-Corruption Battle: Over 7,000 CBI Cases Pending as Agencies Face Internal Challenges

India:fight against corruption faces mounting challenges as over 7,000 CBI corruption cases remain pending in courts, with some investigations dragging on for more than 20 years. Recent incidents of alleged corruption within investigative agencies themselves have raised concerns about accountability.
India's battle against corruption continues to face significant challenges as over 7,000 corruption cases investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation remain pending trial in different courts, with 379 of them pending for over 20 years, according to the latest report from the Central Vigilance Commission.
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The slow pace of corruption trials has become a major concern for India's anti-corruption framework. The backlog of cases highlights systemic issues within the judicial system and raises questions about the effectiveness of corruption prosecution mechanisms in the country. In a particularly troubling development earlier this year, the Delhi High Court remanded three CBI officials to the custody of their own investigating agency in a corruption case, describing it as a unique case that "shakes the edifice of the machinery" whose primary duty is to bring culprits to book. This rare action underscored concerns about integrity within the very agencies tasked with fighting corruption. An Institute of Chartered Accountants of India member recently stated that corruption is not just a problem but has become the biggest business in India, following reports of a Tamil Nadu-based logistics firm halting operations due to alleged extortion demands. The statement sparked widespread debate about the pervasive nature of corrupt practices across various sectors. India currently ranks 96 out of 180 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index, indicating significant room for improvement in public sector transparency and accountability. The ranking reflects ongoing challenges in combating corruption at various levels of governance. The Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate continue to investigate high-profile corruption cases, including recent actions involving major business figures. However, the effectiveness of these investigations is often hampered by lengthy legal proceedings and systemic bottlenecks. Experts emphasize the need for comprehensive judicial reforms, faster trial processes, and stronger witness protection mechanisms to improve India's anti-corruption efforts. The government has introduced various measures including digital governance initiatives and transparency portals, but implementation challenges persist. As India aspires to strengthen its position on the global stage, addressing corruption remains critical for ensuring equitable development, attracting investment, and maintaining public trust in governmental institutions.