(a) whether the Government is aware that the CBI and Income Tax department have detected and seized a number of cases of property acquired through corrupt practices;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of properties seized by the CBI and the number of persons against whom punitive action has been taken during the last three years; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government to check corruption and illegal acquisition of properties?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTRY AFFAIRS.(SHRI SURESH PACHOURI)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b) & (c): The Income Tax Department investigates cases of undisclosed incomes and assets and makes seizure
of such assets regardless of the fact whether such assets are acquired through corrupt practices or otherwise
and no separate data of seizure of assets acquired through corrupt practices is maintained. During 2002,
2003, 2004, 2005 (upto 28.2.2005) CBI has registered 113, 82, 82, & 34 number of cases respectively relating
to acquisition of properties/assets through corrupt practices by public servants which are disproportionate to
their known sources of income. Out of the 311 cases, investigation has been completed in 144 numbers of cases
and action as per law depending on the outcome of the investigation has been taken. Chargesheet has been filed
in 69 cases. 35 cases recommended for regular departmental action and in 18 cases sanction of prosecution has
been sought 20 cases have been recommended for closure and 2 cases referred to the concerned departments for
taking such action as deemed fit.
(d): Several steps have been taken to check corruption in Government offices, such as formulation, monitoring
and effective implementation of anti-corruption policy consisting of a three-pronged strategy of preventive
vigilance, survillance and detection, and deterrent punitive action.