Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has set a deadline of maximum one year for the investigations by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. The new time limit is to ensure that the investigations are completed efficiently within specific time frames, ranging from three months to one year, depending on the nature of the case.

The directive follows the recommendations of vigilance director Manoj Abraham, and it aims to streamline the investigation process and accelerate court proceedings, including the timely filing of charge sheets. Under the new guidelines, preliminary investigations in all cases must be completed within three months. Cases related to disproportionate assets are to be concluded within one year.

For trap cases, the time limit for investigations has been set at six months. Additionally, surprise checks must be followed by recommendations from the officers within one month, and secret investigations should be completed within one month.

This decision comes as a response to ongoing concerns and complaints about vigilance investigations extending indefinitely. It also addresses the issue of officials involved in trap cases potentially evading legal proceedings. By implementing these time limits, the authorities aim to prevent any delays that could lead to accused individuals being granted bail due to prolonged investigations, thus ensuring a more effective and timely administration of justice.