In News:Lokayukta police register FIR against Karnataka CM
2.Evaluate the powers of the Lokpal and Lokayukta in promoting accountability among public officials, and assess its impact on governance in India.
The Lokpal and Lokayukta play a crucial role in addressing corruption at the state level in India, acting as an independent anti-corruption ombudsman.
Powers of the Lokpal and Lokayukta
- Investigative authority: Both institutions have the power to investigate allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and maladministration against public officials.
- Inquiry: They can conduct inquiries into the conduct of public servants and recommend appropriate action.
- Recommendation: Both Lokpal and Lokayukta can recommend disciplinary action, including suspension, dismissal, or prosecution of corrupt officials.
- Supervision over CBI: The Lokpal has the power to supervise the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), ensuring that investigations into corruption are conducted impartially
- Public complaints mechanism: Citizens can file complaints directly with them, facilitating accountability.
- Search and seizure powers: They have the authority to conduct searches and seize documents during investigations.
- Summoning witnesses: They can summon witnesses to provide evidence during inquiries into corruption cases.
- Protection of witnesses: They have the power to protect witnesses who come forward with information.
- Annual reports: Both institutions are required to submit annual reports detailing their activities, findings, and recommendations, promoting transparency in their operations.
Impact on governance:
- Deterrent effect: The presence of the Lokayukta deters public officials from engaging in corrupt practices.
- Encouraging transparency: Its advocacy for transparency has led to reforms aimed at reducing corruption opportunities.
- Restoring public trust: The Lokayukta helps restore public confidence in governance by addressing grievances effectively.
- High-profile cases: Investigations into high-profile corruption cases have resulted in significant political consequences, reinforcing accountability.
- Policy recommendations: The Lokayukta’s findings often lead to policy changes aimed at improving governance standards.
Limitations:
- Limited jurisdiction: The jurisdiction of Lokpal and Lokayukta is limited to investigating corruption and does not extend to other forms of maladministration.
- Political interference: Both institutions can face political interference, which can hinder their effectiveness.
- Lack of adequate resources: In some cases, Lokpal and Lokayukta may lack sufficient resources, including staff and funding, to carry out its investigations effectively.
- Slow pace of investigations: Investigations can be time-consuming, and it may take several years to bring a case to conclusion.
Both Lokpal and Lokayukta have made significant strides in combating corruption and enhancing governance, ongoing reforms are essential to strengthen its powers and ensure its effectiveness in upholding integrity within public administration.
PYQ
- Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.2023
- Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. 2021
- “The Central Administration Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain. 2019