These are the main laws that define corruption offences in India and set up the bodies that investigate them.
Key Laws
Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
The principal law on bribery and corruption by public servants. Amended in 2018 to make giving a bribe a specific offence.
Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
Established the Lokpal to inquire into corruption complaints against public servants at the central level, and required states to set up Lokayuktas.
Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003
Gave statutory status to the Central Vigilance Commission, which oversees vigilance in central government organisations.
Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014
Provides for complaints against public servants and protection for complainants. See Whistleblower Rights.
Right to Information Act, 2005
Gives every citizen the right to request information from public authorities. See RTI Guidelines.
Official Sources
- Full text of central laws: www.indiacode.nic.in
- Lokpal of India: lokpal.gov.in
- Central Vigilance Commission: cvc.gov.in
This summary is for general information. It is not legal advice.