Lokpal

Lokpal:

            The Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) headed by Morarji Desai submitted a special interim report on ‘Problems of Redressal of Citizen’s Grievances’ in 1966. In this report the ARC recommended the setting up of two special authorities designated as ‘Lokpal’ and ‘Lokayukta’ for the redressal of citizen’s grievances.

            These institutions were to be set up on the pattern of the institution of Ombudsman in Scandinavian countries and the Parliamentary Commissioner for Investigation in New Zealand.

            The Lokpal would deal with complaints against ministers and secretaries at Central and state levels, and the Lokayukta (one at the centre and one in every state) would deal with complaints against other specified higher officials.

            The Government of India accepted the recommendations of ARC. So far, nine official attempts have been made to bring about legislation on this subject. However, none of the bills were passed by the Parliament due to one or other reasons. In 2011-12, owing to the public pressure and pressing demands by Anna Hajare and his Jan Lokpal Movement the Government again started rethinking on this issue and introduced a Lokpal Bill in the Loksabha in 2012. It was passed in the

Loksabha but Government failed clear it in the Rajya Sabha.

            The purpose of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011, is to provide for the establishment of a body called the Lokpal for the Centre and bodies called the Lokayukta for States to inquire into allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries.

            The Lokpal has the power to conduct a preliminary inquiry, investigate and prosecute any offence brought to its notice through an appropriately filed complaint. No special sanction is required to initiate the investigation and prosecution.

            The Lokpal has the power to summon and examine any person as it deems necessary and even attach any property or material it believes are “proceeds of offense”. It may also recommend disciplinary action if the inquiry/investigation concludes that an offense was committed.