Lokpall Bill

The word Lokpal means an ombudsman in India. The word has been derived from the Sanskrit words "Loka" which means people and "pala" which means protector or caretaker. So the work Lokpal means 'protector of people'.

The concept of Lokpal has been drawn up to root out corruption at all levels in the prevailing Indian polity. The first Lokpal Bill was introduced by Shanti Bhushan and passed in the 4th Lok Sabha in 1969 but could not get through in the Rajya Sabha. Subsequently, it was introduced time and again, yet they were never passed ant it is still pending after 42 years.

The Lokpal Bill's main points and features are as follows:

(i) It would be a quasi-judicial authority. The working chief justice of India becomes the chairman of the Lokpal.
(ii) Under the chairmanship of the Vice-president, the committee regarding the selection of the members of the Lokpal is established.
(iii) The council of Ministers, the members of the Parliament and government officers would be in Lokpal. But the President and Vice-President are kept aside of the Lokpal.
(iv) Even the Prime Ministers is brought in the scope of his jurisdiction except regarding his working in the fields of National Security or National Systems.
(v) If the complaint against the chairman of Lokpal is proved then he may be removed from his post.

It would be easier to fight against corruption and to have a fair administration in the country, if the Lokpal system is established.

« Go Back to Model Answer Page