Topic: Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
4. Examine the issues that have hindered the performance and autonomy of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the role of judiciary in ensuring that CBI does not act as a “caged parrot”. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: the Hindu
Why the question: While delivering the annual (and the 19th edition) D.P. Kohli Memorial Talk organised by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the CJI minced no words in condemning the utter subordination of investigating agencies to the executive and its disastrous consequences for the cause of justice.
Key Demand of the question: To write about the limitations in the working of CBI and role of judiciary in monitoring its performance.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin your answer by giving brief about CBI as the premier investigating agency.
Body:
First, discuss the issues affecting the performance of CBI – political pressure, staff shortage, case burden, delays in investigation, consent withdrawal by some states and corruption etc.
Discuss the role judiciary has played in reforming CBI and maintaining its autonomy. Suggest reforms that are needed.
Conclusion:
Comment with a balanced way forward.
