The State Of Punjab vs Partap Singh Verka

The Supreme Court ruled that under Section 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, prior sanction is mandatory for prosecuting a public servant for offenses under Sections 7 and 13(2). The Court held that the High Court erred in setting aside the Trial Court's order summoning the respondent under Section 319 of the CrPC, as the necessary sanction was not obtained, thus upholding the requirement for such sanction before cognizance can be taken. The appeal by the State of Punjab was allowed, reinstating the Trial Court's order.