Over the past few years, India has undergone a significant transformation in its approach to combating corruption. This shift is marked by the introduction and strengthening of anti-corruption laws by the government, coupled with a notable increase in enforcement actions taken by law enforcement agencies.
Notably, these actions have targeted not only smaller players but also corporate giants and businessmen implicated in defrauding public and private sector banks. What’s striking is the newfound sophistication in investigations, with agencies leveraging technological tools and engaging private forensic auditors or investigators to unravel complex corporate or financial structures.
Moreover, there’s been a commendable increase in international cooperation, with Indian enforcement agencies forging stronger ties with counterparts in other jurisdictions, leading to more coordinated cross-border enforcement efforts. Equally noteworthy is the heightened willingness among enforcement agencies to aggressively pursue corruption cases, even when they involve high-profile politicians and influential bureaucrats.
This commitment to accountability extends to statutory auditors as well, with proceedings initiated against those implicated in financial fraud. It also underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional principles, particularly in legal matters such as the timing of offences and the application of penalties, ensuring a robust and fair anti-corruption framework in India.