In development, the Lokpal of India has declared January 16 as “Lokpal Day.” This decision was made during a meeting on March 14, 2024. The inaugural celebration is set for January 16, 2025. Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna will be the chief guest at this event. It will be held at the Zorawar Auditorium in the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
What is the Lokpal?
The Lokpal is an anti-corruption authority in India. It was established to address grievances against public officials. The Lokpal investigates allegations of corruption and can recommend actions against those found guilty. The body consists of a Chairperson and several members.
Significance of Lokpal Day
Lokpal Day aims to raise awareness about the role of the Lokpal. It marks the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. The day also serves to celebrate the achievements of the Lokpal in combating corruption.
Inaugural Ceremony Details
The first Lokpal Day will feature several dignitaries. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna will deliver a keynote address. He will discuss the role and functions of the Lokpal. The event will also honour notable individuals such as Attorney General R. Venkatramani, former Supreme Court Justice N. Santosh Hegde, and activist Anna Hazare.
Structure of the Lokpal
As of March 2024, the Lokpal comprises a Chairperson and six members. Justice A. M. Khanwilkar has been appointed as the second Chairperson. The Lokpal operates under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which provides the legal framework for its functioning.
Role of the Chief Justice
The Chief Justice of India plays important role in the judiciary and the legal system. As the chief guest at Lokpal Day, the CJI will tell the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the law. The address will focus on the collaborative efforts between the judiciary and the Lokpal in fighting corruption.
Participation of Dignitaries
The ceremony will see participation from various legal and governmental figures. This includes judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts, Lokayuktas, and members of the Legal Services Authority. Their presence signifies the collective effort against corruption in India.
Future Directions for Lokpal
The Lokpal aims to enhance its effectiveness in tackling corruption. Future initiatives may include public awareness campaigns and improved investigation processes. The Lokpal will continue to adapt to the changing landscape of governance and corruption.
Challenges Faced by Lokpal
Despite its establishment, the Lokpal faces challenges. These include limited resources, bureaucratic hurdles, and the need for greater public awareness. Addressing these challenges is essential for the Lokpal to fulfil its mandate effectively.
Questions for UPSC –
- Critically examine the role of the Lokpal in promoting accountability in governance.
- Discuss the significance of anti-corruption bodies in democratic societies.
- Explain the relationship between judicial independence and anti-corruption measures in India.
- What are the challenges faced by the Lokpal in its functioning? How can these be addressed?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically examine the role of the Lokpal in promoting accountability in governance.
- The Lokpal investigates corruption allegations against public officials, enhancing accountability.
- It provides a mechanism for citizens to voice grievances against corrupt practices.
- By recommending actions against guilty officials, it promotes transparency in governance.
- The establishment of the Lokpal signifies a commitment to fighting corruption at high levels.
- Its role in public awareness campaigns educates citizens about their rights and governance.
2. Discuss the significance of anti-corruption bodies in democratic societies.
- Anti-corruption bodies uphold the rule of law, ensuring that no one is above the law.
- They encourage public trust in government institutions by promoting transparency and accountability.
- Such bodies act as deterrents against corrupt practices, encouraging ethical behavior among officials.
- They provide a platform for citizens to report corruption, empowering civic engagement.
- Anti-corruption bodies contribute to sustainable development by creating a fairer economic environment.
3. Explain the relationship between judicial independence and anti-corruption measures in India.
- Judicial independence ensures that anti-corruption bodies like the Lokpal function without political interference.
- A strong judiciary can uphold the rule of law, making anti-corruption measures more effective.
- Collaboration between the judiciary and anti-corruption bodies enhances legal accountability.
- Judicial oversight can protect the integrity of anti-corruption investigations and prosecutions.
- Independent judiciary encourages public confidence in the legal system’s ability to combat corruption.
4. What are the challenges faced by the Lokpal in its functioning? How can these be addressed?
- The Lokpal faces resource constraints, limiting its investigative capacity and outreach.
- Bureaucratic hurdles can delay investigations and impede timely action against corruption.
- Lack of public awareness about the Lokpal’s role reduces citizen engagement in reporting corruption.
- Strengthening legal frameworks and increasing funding can enhance the Lokpal’s effectiveness.
- Public awareness campaigns can educate citizens on the Lokpal’s functions and encourage reporting.
