Controller General of Accounts (Vigilance)
Vigilance Inquiry Protocol 2026
CGA Preventive Vigilance Order
CGA Inquiry Rules 2026: Strict Timelines for PEO/PO & Mandatory Surprise Checks
- Status: Strict Compliance
- Authority: Controller General of Accounts (Vigilance Section)
- Target: PEO, PO & Head of Office
- Key Mandate: Adherence to Inquiry Timelines
What Changed: Zero-Tolerance on Delay
The Controller General of Accounts (CGA) has issued a stern directive regarding “Preventive Vigilance” and the conduct of departmental inquiries. The order highlights serious lapses in the submission of reports by Preliminary Enquiry Officers (PEO) and Presenting Officers (PO), leading to delays in justice. The new SOP mandates strict adherence to timelines and introduces “Surprise Inspections.”
✅ Official Orders Issued
Authority: Office of CGA, New Delhi
Subject: Preventive Vigilance Exercises & Compliance of Duties by PEO/PO
Reference: CGA Vigilance Circular Jan 2026
The New Protocol: Timelines & Duties
The circular enforces specific duties for officers assigned to vigilance cases. It emphasizes that vigilance work is not a secondary task but a primary responsibility.
✔ Mandatory Duties
- Surprise Inspections: Heads of Office must conduct periodic surprise checks of cash, stores, and sensitive files.
- PEO Timeline: Preliminary Enquiry Reports must be submitted within the stipulated time (usually 1 month) without fail.
- PO Responsibility: Presenting Officers must attend all hearings and not seek adjournments on administrative grounds.
✖ Prohibited Actions
- Delay Tactics: Citing “office workload” as an excuse for delaying inquiry reports is no longer acceptable.
- Missing Deadlines: Failure to submit the IPR (Immovable Property Return) scrutiny report will attract disciplinary action.
Timeline & Accountability Matrix
| Activity | Responsibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Surprise Inspection | Head of Office | Quarterly / Periodic |
| PEO Report Submission | Preliminary Enquiry Officer | Fixed Date (Case specific) |
| IPR Scrutiny | Vigilance Officer | Annual Review |
How to Respond (Draft Compliance Report)
Heads of Offices (HoO) required to submit the compliance report on surprise inspections can use the following standard format.
“Confidential
To,
The Jt. Controller General of Accounts (Vigilance),
New Delhi.Sub: Compliance Report on Preventive Vigilance – Surprise Inspection.
Sir,
In compliance with the CGA Circular dated Jan 2026, a surprise inspection of the [Cash Section/Store] was conducted on [Date] at [Time]. The physical cash balance was verified against the Cash Book and found [Correct/Discrepant]. The report of the inspection is enclosed herewith for record. Strict instructions have been issued to PEOs under this control to adhere to inquiry timelines.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a PEO in Vigilance?
A Preliminary Enquiry Officer (PEO) is appointed to conduct a fact-finding inquiry into allegations. They must gather evidence, record statements, and submit a report determining if a prima facie case exists.
Can a PO refuse to attend a hearing due to office work?
No. The CGA order explicitly states that Presenting Officers (PO) must prioritize inquiry proceedings. Administrative workload cannot be a valid ground for seeking adjournments.
What is a Surprise Check in Vigilance?
It is an unannounced inspection conducted by the Head of Office or Vigilance Officer to detect irregularities, malpractices, or cash discrepancies in real-time.