UNION OF INDIA ETC., REP.THR.SUPDT.OF POLICE vs T. NATHAMUNI

The Supreme Court held that under Section 17 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, only officers not below the rank of Inspector of Police are authorized to investigate without court permission. The Court found that the Madras High Court erred in setting aside the Special Judge's order allowing a Sub-Inspector to investigate, as the law does not explicitly prohibit such permission. The Court reinstated the order of the Special Judge, allowing the investigation to proceed.