This document contains the full judgment from the Supreme Court of India in the case of Anil Kumar & Ors Vs M K Aiyappa & Anr, dated 1 October 2013. It addresses a crucial legal question regarding the necessity of a valid sanction order before a Special Judge can refer a private complaint against a public servant for investigation under Section 156(3) Cr.P.C. The judgment clarifies the distinction between pre-cognizance and post-cognizance stages and the mandatory nature of sanction for public servants. This is essential reading for legal professionals, especially those dealing with corruption cases and public servant accountability.