The establishment of a national Lokpal though hailed as a significant step towards curbing corruption and malpractice in public affairs, cannot singularly address the intricate issue of immorality pervasive within the corridors of power. While a robust anti-corruption institution can serve as a deterrent and mechanism for accountability, the roots of immorality run deeper and are intertwined with broader societal, cultural, and institutional factors. Corruption and unethical behavior in public life stem not only from individuals’ desire for personal gain but also from systemic flaws, loopholes, and a culture of impunity. A national Lokpal, no matter how empowered, operates within the framework of existing laws and regulations, which may themselves be insufficient or prone to manipulation. Moreover, the efficacy of such an institution is contingent upon its independence, resources, and the integrity of those appointed to lead it, factors that are subject to political influence and manipulation. Additionally, tackling immorality requires a multifaceted approach encompassing education, transparency, institutional reforms, and societal change. While a national Lokpal can play a crucial role in this endeavor, it cannot single-handedly eradicate deeply ingrained patterns of unethical behavior. Therefore, while necessary, the establishment of a national Lokpal must be complemented by broader systemic reforms and a concerted effort to foster a culture of integrity and accountability in public life.
Tag: Transparency and accountability, Citizen’s Charter & Anticorruption, etc.
Decoding the Question:
- In the Introduction, try to write about Lokpal.
- In Body,
- Write its features and importance.
- Discuss how it cannot stop the immorality of public officials.
- In conclusion, try to suggest some measures to strengthen Lokpal.
Answer:
Lokpal was established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013 to inquire and investigate allegations of corruption against public functionaries who fall within the scope and ambit of the above Act. It is committed to address concerns and aspirations of the citizens of India for clean governance and make all efforts within its jurisdiction to serve the public interest and shall endeavor to use the powers vested in it to eradicate corruption in public life.
Features and Importance of Lokpal:
- Lokpal is an institution to make Indian administration corruption-free and address citizens’ grievances regarding any cases related to corruption or administration malfunction.
- It provided for setting up of anti-corruption ombudsman called Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayukta at the State-level.
- It consists of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members; the chairperson is a former Chief Justice or a sitting or former judge of the Supreme Court of India. It inquires into allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries.
- The jurisdiction of the Lokpal is very wide; It includes the Prime Minister and all other ministers, all top officials.
- It has the power to give directions to all the agencies like CBI, CVC, etc. It can also suspend or transfer any officer who is coming in the way of an inquiry.
- It also works as an investigative agency and a prosecuting agency. The Special courts will be instituted to conduct trials on cases referred by Lokpal.
- It has powers of confiscation of assets, proceeds, receipts, and benefits arisen or procured by means of corruption in special circumstances.
- It can recommend suspension or transfer of public servant connected with an allegation of corruption.
The Problems of Immorality in Public Affairs:
- Immorality is an act of making wrong choices knowingly and implementing them; it is clear that Lokpal can not interfere in the working of the permanent executive; hence it may not stop public officials from doing immoral acts.
- Lokpal may come into the picture when an immoral act was already done, and the public or citizens made a complaint about it. Therefore, enforcement of morality is a post mortem job for Lokpal.
- The appointing committee consists of members from political parties, which may create political influence on its working.
- It doesn’t provide concrete immunity to the whistleblowers. The provision for initiation of inquiry against the complainant if the accused is found innocent will only discourage people from complaining.
Suggestions to Empower Lokpal:
- The appointment of Lokpal and Lokayukta must be made transparently without any political interference.
- It should be financially, administratively, and legally independent to ensure effectiveness.
- Multiple decentralized institutions with appropriate accountability mechanisms can be created to avoid the concentration of too much power in one institution or authority.
- Its jurisdiction must be clear and should not overlap with other similar bodies.
The creation of a strong and effective Lokpal is certainly the right step in the reduction of corruption, but it couldn’t root out corruption completely. India’s low rank in the corruption perception index reflects the actual real corruption level in any country. The government should take steps to strengthen the Lokpal and make public officials accountable at every step that should be made through effective and aware citizens.
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