ACB clocked 621 cases in five years but 519 await prosecution nod: Forum for Good Governance

The Forum for Good Governance (FGG) has written to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, raising concerns over what it describes as an alarming delay in the disposal of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) cases, despite a steady rise in registrations over the past five years.

The forum released a statement saying that the prolonged pendency is weakening deterrence, emboldening corrupt officials and creating the impression that the system protects wrongdoers instead of the public.

According to data furnished by the ACB in response to an RTI appeal, the bureau registered 621 cases between January 1, 2020, and July 10, 2025. These included 61 trap cases, nine disproportionate assets cases and 14 other criminal misconduct cases in 2020, totalling 84.

In 2021, 74 trap cases, two disproportionate assets cases and seven other cases were booked, totalling 83. In 2022, the numbers rose to 72, 18 and 17 respectively, totalling 107. The bureau registered 73 trap cases, six disproportionate assets cases and eight other cases in 2023, totalling 87.

In 2024, registrations spiked to 129 trap cases, 11 and 12 other cases, finishing at 152 for the year. In 2025, up to July 10, the tally stood at 86, eight and 14 respectively, totalling 108.

The ACB informed the appellant that out of the 621 cases registered during this period, final inquiry reports had been completed in 519 cases and forwarded to the government. These files are now pending sanction for prosecution. Without the government’s permission, charge sheets cannot be filed in court.

The forum said the systemic delays are defeating the very purpose of anti-corruption action. It noted that while the bureau is registering an average of 30 cases a month, the follow-through is stalled at the Secretariat level, allowing accused officials to continue in service without consequence. By the time prosecution begins, the forum said, officers often retire without facing trial or accountability.

It pointed out that even after sanction, court procedures take anywhere between three and five years, stretching the total life cycle of a corruption case to eight or 10 years. In several instances, cases have dragged on for 15 years.

In its representation, the forum said the government’s inaction is deepening public mistrust. It 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 traps and corruption investigations is not lost.