To address citizens’ grievances amicably, the Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) of India (1966-1970) recommended the establishment of two delegated authorities: Lokpal and Lokayukta. This concept was adapted from the institution of the Ombudsman in Scandinavian countries. In India, the then Law Minister, Ashok Kumar, introduced the concept of a Constitutional Ombudsman. This was established to combat corruption among public officials. A Joint Drafting Committee, consisting of five nominees of Shri Anna Hazare, was formed on 08.04.2011 to prepare a draft of the Lokpal Bill. After deliberative reports from the Committee and input from Chief Ministers of states and political parties, the Lokpal Bill was drafted. Following Cabinet approval, the Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha, and after passing both houses and receiving the President’s assent, it came into force on 16th January 2011. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013 primarily aims to establish Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayukta at the state level, thus enhancing vigilance in detecting corruption. The Lokpal must consist of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members, with 50% from a judicial background and 50% from SCs, STs, OBCs, minorities, and women.
A Selection Committee comprising of the Prime Minister, the Speaker, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a sitting Supreme Court Judge nominated by the CJI, and an eminent jurist nominated by the President from the nominations of the first four members, shall select the Chairperson and members of the Lokpal. The Lokpal’s jurisdiction covers all categories of public servants, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials of the Central Government (Groups A, B, C, and D). The Lokpal has the authority to oversee and direct the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the powers of a civil court and the ability to confiscate assets or other privileges obtained through corruption.
Done By: Seethala B , BBA., LL.B (Hons.), Junior Legal Consultant
For Origin Law Labs
