The Delhi High Court on Tuesday quashed the Central Vigilance Commission’s inquiry into bribery allegations against American retail giant Walmart’s Indian arm.
“Writ petition is allowed. The inquiry is set aside,” Justice Vibhu Bakhru said, while allowing Walmart India’s plea challenging the CVC proceedings.
Alleged bribery
The CVC had initiated an investigation into the retail company after a US-based media house had reported that Walmart had allegedly bribed Indian government officials to obtain custom clearances and permission to open and run stores here.
Criminal complaint
The High Court had in an April 2016 interim order directed CVC not to file any criminal complaint against Walmart.
Direction extended
The direction was extended from time to time during the pendency of the proceedings before the court.
The court had earlier observed that CVC was empowered to inquire or investigate a complaint against officials for offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, but a news report would not prima facie constitute a complaint.