Thomas Effect: Private persons, CBI checks and an ‘integrity certificate’ for new CVC

Stung by the P J Thomas affair and handed out a set of directives by the Supreme Court, a chastened government has now begun a nationwide search for the next Central Vigilance Commissioner as per a new set of guidelines.

According to these guidelines, available with The Indian Express, the Department of Personnel and Training — in tune with the apex court’s directions — has opened the job to non-civil service candidates too, calling for private persons of “repute and integrity”.

The guidelines set the age bar at 61, call for 33 years of experience for applicants who are with the government, and a background and vigilance check spanning several stages. A detailed note of “(all) applications received and rejected and the short-listing criteria” will be put up before the selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, Home Minister and Leader of Opposition.