Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004 (ACC Act)

This law created the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) — the national agency responsible for preventing and investigating corruption.

Besides this, corruption-related offences are also covered in:

• Penal Code 1860 (sections on bribery, criminal breach of trust, fraud, forgery)

• Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947

• Money Laundering Prevention Act

• Government Servants (Conduct) Rules)

But the ACC Act, 2004 is the central corruption-focused law.

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📑 Report on the Anti-Corruption Law of Bangladesh

1. Introduction

Corruption is a major challenge in Bangladesh, affecting government services, law enforcement, politics, judiciary, development projects, and private institutions.
To control corruption, Bangladesh established the Anti-Corruption Commission under the Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004. This law outlines the powers, responsibilities, investigation procedures, and punishments to reduce and prevent corruption.

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2. Background of the Law

• Before 2004, corruption cases were handled mainly under the Bureau of Anti-Corruption.

• Due to pressure from civil society and international organizations, Bangladesh passed the ACC Act in 2004.

• The ACC began its operation officially in 2004, replacing the previous body.

• The purpose of the law is to create an independent, neutral, and powerful body to deal with corruption.

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3. Key Features of the ACC Act, 2004

🔹 Establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission

• A national body with three commissioners.

• Supposed to be independent from political influence.

🔹 Powers of the ACC

• Investigate corruption allegations.

• Arrest individuals involved in corruption (with proper procedure).

• Interrogate suspects.

• File cases in special corruption courts.

• Recommend actions to prevent corruption.

🔹 What Counts as Corruption?

Under the law, corruption includes:

• Bribery

• Misuse of public office

• Illegal wealth accumulation

• Embezzlement

• Fraud and forgery

• Money laundering

• Abuse of power

• Misappropriation of government funds

🔹 Punishments

Punishment varies depending on the offence:

• 3 to 14 years imprisonment for most corruption crimes

• Confiscation of illegal wealth

• Fines for bribery and fraud

• Removal from government jobs

• Cancellation of contracts and licenses

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4. Strengths of the Law

✔ Independent body created

The ACC is designed to work without government interference.

✔ Wide investigative powers

The Commission can investigate any government official, public representative, or private party involved in corruption.

✔ Special courts

Corruption cases are heard in special tribunals, which should speed up trials.

✔ Focus on preventive measures

The ACC also works to raise awareness in the public.

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5. Weaknesses & Criticisms

❌ Lack of real independence

Experts argue the ACC faces political pressure and cannot always act freely.

❌ Delays in investigation

Corruption cases often take years to complete.

❌ Low conviction rate

Many cases end in acquittal due to weak evidence or legal loopholes.

❌ Insufficient manpower & resources

ACC struggles with limited staff and technical expertise.

❌ Corruption in high offices rarely punished

Critics say that high-profile individuals often avoid accountability.

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6. Real-World Challenges

• Political influence slows down investigations.

• Government officials often refuse cooperation.

• Witnesses fear giving statements.

• Complex corruption networks make evidence collection difficult.

• Weak coordination between ACC and police.

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7. Recent Developments

• ACC has adopted digital complaint systems.

• Initiatives are being taken to improve transparency.

• There is ongoing pressure from media and citizens to strengthen the law.

• Some corruption reforms are being discussed (e.g., more independence, faster trial process).

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8. Conclusion

The Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004 is the primary corruption law of Bangladesh.
It created the ACC to fight corruption, investigate allegations, and prosecute offenders.

However, despite strong legal provisions, corruption remains a major problem due to:

• Weak implementation

• Political interference

• Low conviction rates

• Lack of institutional strength

To truly reduce corruption, Bangladesh needs stronger legal reforms, more independence for ACC, public awareness, and transparent governance.