Correct option is B
The correct answer is (b) 1 and 2.
Explanation
The jurisdiction and powers of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) regarding the inquiry into corruption complaints are primarily governed by Section 8 of the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, and were significantly expanded by the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
- Statement 1 is correct: According to Section 8(2)(a) of the CVC Act, 2003, the Commission has the power to inquire into any complaint against members of the All-India Services (IAS, IPS, and IFoS) who are serving in connection with the affairs of the Union.
- Statement 2 is correct: Originally, the CVC Act (2003) specified direct jurisdiction over Group 'A' officers of the Central Government. However, with the amendment brought by the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 (Section 8(2)(c)), the CVC was empowered to conduct preliminary inquiries and investigations into complaints referred by the Lokpal against Groups A, B, C, and D officials. Additionally, the CVC has traditionally handled vigilance matters for all Gazetted Officers of the Central Government, which includes both Group A and Group B.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The CVC does not have jurisdiction over all employees of Government Companies (Public Sector Undertakings). Its jurisdiction is limited to "such level of officers" as notified by the Central Government. Currently, for CPSEs, this covers only Board-level appointees and senior-level executives (e.g., E-8 and above in Schedule A and B PSUs, and E-7 and above in Schedule C and D PSUs).