What is Lok Pal ? History / Composition/लोकपाल भारत का – अवलोकन और इतिहास:

The Lokpal is an anti-corruption ombudsman institution established in India to investigate complaints of corruption in public offices, specifically among government officials, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, and Members of Parliament. The institution is designed to provide an accessible mechanism to tackle corruption and ensure greater transparency in the functioning of public offices.

History and Formation of the Lokpal:

1. Background:
   The concept of an anti-corruption body in India has its roots in the 1970s, when the idea of creating an institution to address corruption within the public services was first discussed. The Lokpal movement gained momentum after Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement in 2011, which led to widespread public demand for the establishment of the Lokpal.
2. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013:
   The Lokpal was officially established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which came into force after years of debate. The Act aimed at creating an institution that would be independent of government control and able to act impartially to investigate corruption charges.
3. First Lokpal Appointment (2019):
   After several delays, the first Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, was appointed in March 2019. This marked the first time in India’s history that the institution became operational.

Structure and Members of Lokpal:

The Lokpal consists of a Chairperson and up to 8 members, including a minimum of 50% members from among those who are judicial in nature. These members are appointed by a selection committee consisting of:

1. Prime Minister of India (Chairperson of the selection committee)
2. Leader of Opposition (or leader of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha)
3. Chief Justice of India (or a sitting judge of the Supreme Court)
4. Speaker of the Lok Sabha
5. Eminent public figures (as nominated by the President of India)

This multi-faceted committee aims to ensure that the selection process for Lokpal is transparent, impartial, and free from political interference.

Challenges Faced by Lokpal:

1. Delay in Operationalization:
   The Lokpal’s functioning faced a significant delay due to hurdles in the selection process and political opposition. It took several years after the 2013 Act for the Lokpal to become functional.
2. Limited Jurisdiction:
   The Lokpal’s jurisdiction is currently limited to investigating corruption cases against public servants, including government employees and politicians. However, many critics argue that it should also have broader powers to tackle corporate corruption and corruption in the private sector.
3. Political and Administrative Resistance:
   The Lokpal has faced resistance from certain political quarters, especially regarding its powers to investigate high-profile political figures. Some argue that the institution could be misused for political purposes.
4. Inadequate Infrastructure:
   The Lokpal is still developing its infrastructure and capacity to handle the growing number of complaints. Resources and staff limitations have made it challenging for the institution to be fully effective.
5. Delay in Investigation and Prosecution:
   As with many institutions in India, the Lokpal has faced challenges related to the speed and effectiveness of its investigations. Delays in both the investigation and prosecution processes undermine public confidence in the institution’s ability to tackle corruption.

Way Forward for Lokpal:

1. Strengthening Independence:
   One of the key areas for improvement is ensuring that the Lokpal remains independent from political and executive interference. This will enhance public trust and its ability to function without fear or favor.
2. Expanding Jurisdiction:
   There is a growing call to expand the jurisdiction of Lokpal to include cases involving the corporate sector and other areas where corruption is rampant, including judiciary and bureaucracy.
3. Adequate Resources and Infrastructure:
   To be more effective, the Lokpal must be properly resourced with adequate staff, offices, and technology. This would ensure that cases are handled promptly, and investigations are conducted thoroughly.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   Greater public awareness regarding the role and functions of the Lokpal is crucial. Public education on how to file complaints and the Lokpal’s work can encourage more people to come forward and report corruption.
5. Collaboration with Other Agencies:
   Collaboration with other investigative bodies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and State Vigilance Commissions could help streamline the process and ensure that corruption cases are handled more efficiently.
6. Public Accountability:
   Ensuring that Lokpal’s own activities are subject to scrutiny and accountability can build further trust. Transparency in its actions, decisions, and investigation outcomes will help sustain its credibility.

The 1st Foundation Day celebration of the Lokpal symbolizes the institution’s growing role in India’s fight against corruption, although there remains a long road ahead in ensuring its full potential is realized. Effective implementation and overcoming challenges like delays and political resistance will be key to making the Lokpal a true guardian of integrity in Indian public life.