Question : CORRUPTION CASES

(a) the details of corruption cases pending in various courts against high profile persons in the country during the last three years and the current year, State / UT-wise;

(b) whether the Government proposes to ban on their contesting or representing people in any capacity;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor and response of the Government thereto;

(d) whether the Government is considering to enact laws to expedite and fix time frame to probe the corruption charges against high profile persons;and

(e) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF LAW AND JUSTICE (DR. ASHWANI KUMAR)

(a) to (e) As per Law Commission of India, the definition of the term ‘influential (high profile) persons’ is not feasible as not only those holding public office or former such persons, but even their close associates may wield influence to impact probes and trials. As such specific data of corruption cases pending in courts cannot be relatable to ‘high profile’ persons. As regards ban on their contesting or representing people, there is presently a provision under sub – section 1 of the Section 8 of the Representation of People Act, 1951, which provides that a person convicted of certain offences specified therein, which inter-alia include offences under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, shall be disqualified for being Member of Parliament and State Legislature where the convicted person is sentenced to (i) only fine, for a period of six years from the date of such conviction (ii) imprisonment, from the date of such conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release. Issues pertaining to improvements in the justice delivery system including ensuring affordable and expeditious disposal of cases are constantly engaging the attention of Government. Government remains committed to ensuring probity and transparency in governance.