Foundation Day of India’s Lokpal was celebrated on 16th January, marking the establishment of the institution under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
The Lokpal of India is an anti-corruption ombudsman established to investigate and prosecute corruption cases against public officials.
Establishment:
The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was passed in 2013 after a long struggle by anti-corruption activists.
The Lokpal institution was finally established in March 2019.
Composition:
It is comprised of a Chairperson and a maximum of eight members.
The Chairperson should be either a former Chief Justice of India or a former Supreme Court judge.
Jurisdiction:
The Lokpal has jurisdiction over a wide range of public functionaries, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Group A, B, C, and D officials of the Central Government.
Powers:
The Lokpal has the power to initiate investigations, conduct inquiries, and file cases in special courts against public servants accused of corruption.
It can also recommend disciplinary action against corrupt officials.
Limitations:
The Lokpal’s jurisdiction does not extend to the armed forces, judiciary, and intelligence agencies.
It cannot inquire into complaints against the Prime Minister related to international relations, external and internal security, public order, atomic energy, and space.
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