Overwhelming Backlog: 6,900 Pending Corruption Cases Linger in Indian Courts

The latest annual report by the Central Vigilance Commission reveals over 6,900 corruption cases probed by the CBI are pending trials in various courts, with 361 cases exceeding 20 years. Additionally, 12,773 appeals/revisions are pending in high courts and the Supreme Court, highlighting significant delays in the judicial process.

According to the latest report from the Central Vigilance Commission, over 6,900 corruption cases investigated by the CBI are still awaiting trial in various courts. Alarmingly, 361 of these cases have been pending for more than 20 years.

The report, covering the year 2023, indicates that as many as 2,558 appeals or revisions have been languishing in high courts and the Supreme Court for over 10 years. Furthermore, the report cites excessive workload, inadequate manpower, and delays in obtaining responses as factors contributing to the prolonged investigations.

Despite these challenges, the CBI registered 552 new corruption cases in 2023. However, the conviction rate saw a slight dip to 71.47%, compared to 74.59% in 2022, raising questions about the effectiveness of the anti-corruption efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)