Lok Sabha passes anti-graft amendment Bill

Lok Sabha passes anti-graft amendment Bill

News:

1. The Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018.

Important facts:

2. Key features of the Bill are given below:

• The Bill seeks to punish bribe-givers and bribe takers.
• Jail terms of three to seven years, besides fine, to those convicted by receiving or giving brides to public officials.
• The public servants will be prosecuted after government sanction.
• The verdict on corruption cases should be given within    two years.
• The Bill makes a distinction between “Collusive bribe givers” and those who are “coerced”. The Bill seeks to protect those who report the matter within 7 days.

3. Criticisms of the Bill:

• Many members raised concerns that the seven-day period was too short and need to extend this time frame.
• The Bill was critised for diluting from its original draft by introducing a provision to get prior permission for starting an investigation.