Though opinion of CVC is only advisory, it is nevertheless a valuable input in the decision-making process of the appointing authority. However, the final decision of the appointing authority must be of its own, by application of independent mind. Held, we have examined the correspondence and the long-drawn communications between the CBI, the DoPT, and the CVC. We found that the inquiry made by the appointing authority, the DoPT, was only for soliciting further information, and particularly the opinion given by CVC is also advisory. The sanction order of the DoPT dated 24.07.2017 is an independent decision of the department that was taken based on the material before it. Under these circumstances, we are not inclined to accept the first submission made on behalf of the Appellant that the order of sanction suffers from illegality due to non-application of mind or acting under dictation. Re: Issue No
[Vijay Rajmohan v. CBI, (2023) 1 SCC 329]