The Issue of CBI Autonomy

The issue has become important because of the perception that the CBI trims its sails in politically sensitive cases depending upon the political requirements of the ruling party. So, essentially the only issue is how to ensure that the CBI  takes up all the cases that the laws require it to investigate, pursues them vigorously and fairly and takes them to their logical conclusion, no matter what the political fall- out might be.
In context of the Lokpal issue, it means that the Lokpal must have the authority to ask the CBI (and other investigative agencies like Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax department etc.) to take up a matter for investigation. The Lokpal must also have the authority to review progress of the cases referred by it and issue lawful directions in an open manner  (although sensitive cases may be reviewed in camera by a bench of three or more Lokpals). The Lokpal should also have the authority to appoint special prosecutor for any case, who can be asked for opinion whenever necessary and to prosecute the case in Court. In administrative matters, the proposal that Director CBI should be appointed by a collegium is very sensible and the present arrangements can continue for the other staff with the proviso that if the government or the Lokpal wish to transfer or extend the tenure of any official connected with Lokpal cases, then it may be done only on basis of consensus.