What is it?
- An important piece of legislation that addresses corruption at the highest levels of government in India is the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which establishes an independent ombudsman called the Lokpal at the central level and the Lokayuktas at the state level to investigate claims of corruption against public functionaries.
Key Provisions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
- The Act creates the central institution of the Lokpal and the state institution of the Lokayuktas.
- A chairperson and a predetermined number of members, both judicial and non-judicial, make up the Lokpal.
- Allegations of corruption against public functionaries, such as the Prime Minister, ministers, members of Parliament, and other central government employees, may be investigated by the Lokpal.
- The Lokpal is the place to file complaints about corruption involving public personnel.
- The Act allows anybody, including members of the public, to file a complaint.
- Allegations of corruption may be the subject of investigations and inquiries by the Lokpal.
- It has the authority to bring charges against those found guilty of corruption.
- Whistleblowers who reveal information regarding corruption are protected under the Act.
- There are safeguards in place to prevent victimisation of whistleblowers.
- The Act seeks to ensure that matters are handled within a set time frame by streamlining the investigation and inquiry process.
- If public employees are determined to have committed corruption, the Lokpal has the authority to suggest sanctions or initiate disciplinary action.