LOKPAL AND LOKAYUKTAS
The Lokpal and Lokayuktas represent pivotal institutions in India's framework to combat corruption and promote accountability within the government. Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, these bodies were conceived to address the widespread issue of corruption in public offices and ensure greater transparency in governance. The Lokpal operates at the national level, overseeing the conduct of central government officials, while the Lokayuktas function at the state level, monitoring state government officials and institutions.
The genesis of these institutions can be traced back to long-standing demands for a robust anti-corruption mechanism in India. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was enacted in response to public outcry and widespread movements led by civil society, particularly the notable India Against Corruption movement spearheaded by activist Anna Hazare in 2011. The legislation aimed to create an independent and empowered body capable of investigating allegations of corruption against public officials and elected representatives, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, and Members of Parliament.
1.Chairperson and Members: The Lokpal consists of a Chairperson and up to eight Members. Half of the members must be from a judicial background. The Chairperson is typically a former or sitting judge of the Supreme Court or a former Chief Justice of a High Court. The Members include individuals with expertise in law, public administration, finance, and other relevant fields.
2.Appointment Process: The Chairperson and Members of the Lokpal are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a high-level selection committee.