The Lawby Hustle

What are the features of the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2011?

Initial Legislation: The Indian Government introduced “The Public Interest Disclosure and Protection to Persons Making the Disclosure Bill, 2010” to control and supervise disclosures regarding corruption or misuse of power by public authorities.
Renaming & Enactment: The bill was renamed the Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2011, and enacted into law in 2014.
Whistleblower Protection: The Act serves as a mechanism to protect the anonymity of whistleblowers, ensure their safety from victimization, and encourage reporting without fear.
Complaint Reporting: Whistleblowers can report complaints to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), the competent authority under the Act.
Punishment for False Complaints: The Act stipulates imprisonment of up to two years and a fine of up to Rs. 30,000 for false or frivolous complaints.
Good Faith Requirement: Whistleblowers must submit complaints in good faith, with a personal declaration believing the information disclosed to be true and substantially accurate.
Submission Method: Complaints can be submitted in writing or via email, along with all relevant details and supporting evidence or documents.
No Action for Incorrect Complaints: If a complaint is incorrect or the identity of the public authority is unknown, no action will be taken.
Exclusion of National Security: The Act excludes any information that poses a threat to national security from its purview.

Legal Know-How for the Hustler in You