In the upcoming monsoon session of the state assembly, discussions are brewing to enact a robust law to confiscate the properties of corrupt government officials.
The central government had enacted a law 12 years ago to confiscate the properties of corrupt officials who had retired. The state government is now drafting a similar law for officials and employees who engage in corruption even during service.
There is a possibility that a bill regarding this matter will be introduced in the upcoming monsoon session of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly likely to be held between Aug 21 and 23.
Family property also on the list
According to reports, the government may be taking such measures after cases akin to corrupt former town planning officer (TPO) of Rajkot, Mansukh Sagathiya.
Sagathiya was charged with disproportionate assets. However, under the proposed law, the government can confiscate all properties and assets as soon as a case of disproportionate assets is filed.
Currently, the laws are allowing the seizure of corrupt properties after going through court procedures.
However, under the new law, the government will be able to confiscate disproportionate properties immediately after the case is filed.
Additionally, stricter rules for bail may also be established. Similar laws were passed in Odisha in 2006 and Bihar in 2009, but were stayed by the Supreme Court upon an appeal.
The proposed law will allow the confiscation of properties not only of the corrupt officials but also of their family members and any properties purchased under their names.
Cases of corruption in Gujarat
According to the latest report from the Gujarat Vigilance Commission, a total of 12,049 complaints of corruption were registered in just one year across 21 departments of the Secretariat, with the highest number of complaints being 2,996 in the urban development department and 1,735 in the revenue department.
In 2020, the commission registered 8,373 complaints and recommended actions against a mere 983 officials. In 2021, out of 11,226 complaints, actions were recommended in 1,148 cases, and in 2022, out of 12,608 complaints, actions were recommended in 1,548 cases.