The Forum for Good Governance (FGG) has written to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressing concern over what it describes as an alarming delay in disposal of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) cases, despite a steady increase in registrations over the past five years.
The forum released a statement saying prolonged dependency weakens deterrence, emboldens corrupt officials and creates the impression that the system protects offenders instead of the public.
According to data provided by the ACB in response to an RTI appeal, the authority registered 621 cases between January 1, 2020 and July 10, 2025. In 2020, this included 61 cases of entrapment, nine cases of disproportionate assets and 14 other criminal cases, for a total of 84.
In 2021, there were 74 cases of entrapment, two cases of disproportionate assets, and seven other cases, for a total of 83. In 2022, the numbers increased to 72, 18, and 17, for a total of 107. In 2023, the office registered 73 cases of entrapment, six cases of disproportionate assets, and eight other cases, for a total of 873.
In 2024, registrations climbed to 129 trap cases, 11 and 12 more cases, ending at 152 for the year. In 2025, by July 10, the number was 86, 8, and 14, for a total of 108.
ACB informed the appellant that out of 621 cases registered during this period, final investigation reports were completed in 519 cases and submitted to the government. These files are now awaiting prosecution sanctions. Charges cannot be filed in court without the government’s permission.
The forum said that systemic delays defeat the very purpose of anti-corruption action. She noted that while the office registers an average of 30 cases a month, scrutiny is suspended at the secretariat level, allowing accused officials to continue serving without consequence. By the time prosecutions are launched, the forum said, officers often walk away without facing trial or accountability.
He pointed out that even after a sanction, the court proceedings take three to five years, extending the total life cycle of a corruption case to eight to ten years. In several cases, the cases drag on for 15 years.
The forum said on its behalf that the government’s inaction is deepening public distrust. She urged the Chief Minister to issue firm directions to streamline the disposal of ACB cases and ensure timely prosecution so that the deterrent value of corruption traps and investigations is not lost.
Published – 25 Nov 2025 09:24 IST
