Investigation subject to safeguards

The appeals were allowed and investigation could proceed. Final reports were directed to be filed within six months of receipt of the judgment. In pending investigations, the appellants were restrained from taking coercive steps by arrest. The respondents were expected to cooperate with the investigation. The directions balanced investigation with protection against coercive action. The authorities remained bound by the safeguards stated by the Court. The deadline promotes timely completion. The operative directions apply to the cases covered by the appeals. (The Joint Director (Rayalaseema), Anti-Corruption Bureau, A.P. & Anr. v. Dayam Peda Ranga Rao | 2026 INSC 37)