Centre brings Ordinances to extend tenure of ED, CBI directors up to 5 years

What is the News?

The Government of India has brought two ordinances to extend the tenure of Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) directors up to 5 years.

Note: Currently, the tenure of chiefs of ED and CBI is two years. While they can not be removed (with some exceptions) before their tenure ends, an extension can be given by the government.

Which are the acts amended to bring in the ordinances?

The change in tenure of the CBI Director was done by amending the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946.

On the other hand, the changes to the tenure of the ED Director was brought in by amending the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003.

What are the key provisions of the ordinances?

The CBI or ED director can be appointed first for a period of two years. But if needed, the tenure can be extended for three more years. This will require three separate annual extensions.

However, no extension can be granted to an ED or CBI chief after a period of five years.

Source: This post is based on the following articles: 

• “CBI, ED chiefs can now have five-year terms” published in The Hindu on 15th November 2021.
• “Centre brings Ordinances to extend tenure of ED, CBI directors up to 5 years” published in Indian Express on 15th November 2021.