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About:
- The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013 establishes Lokpal for the Union and Lokayukta for States, acting as an “ombudsman” to investigate corruption allegations against public officials.
Background:
- 1966: The First Administrative Reforms Commission proposed Lokpal and Lokayukta.
- 1968: Lokpal Bill passed in Lok Sabha but later lapsed.
- 2002 & 2005: Recommendations for establishing Lokpal were reiterated by Venkatachaliah Commission and 2nd ARC.
- 2013: “India Against Corruption” movement led by Anna Hazare catalyzed the enactment of Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill
Structure of Lokpal:
- Consists of a chairperson and up to 8 members.
- Chairperson can be a former Chief Justice of India, Supreme Court Judge, or an eminent person with expertise in anti-corruption.
- Half of the members are judicial members; 50% are from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/women.
- Term: 5 years or till age 70.
Selection and Appointment:
- Appointed by the President based on recommendations of a Selection Committee.
- The Selection Committee includes the Prime Minister (Chairperson), Speaker of Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Chief Justice of India (or a Judge nominated by him/her), and one eminent jurist.
Jurisdiction and Powers:
- Covers Prime Ministers (excluding matters related to international relations, security, etc.), Ministers, MPs, central government officials, and others involved in corruption.
- Can superintend and direct investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
- Requires public officials to declare assets and liabilities.
- Can approve or disapprove transfers of investigating officers in cases referred to the CBI.
Why in News:
- Lokpal recently ordered a CBI probe into charges against Mahua Moitra, a member of the parliament in alleged cash-for-query scam.
