Lokpal and Lokayuktas Definition, Types, Examples & Uses

Lokpal and Lokayuktas

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Anti-corruption ombudsman institutions. The Lokpal Act, 2013 created a Lokpal at the Union level to investigate graft charges against public functionaries, including the Prime Minister (with specific restrictions). Each state must institute a Lokayukta for parallel oversight. They enjoy investigatory powers, summoning witnesses, and recommending prosecution. Lokpal’s search committee finalizes the chairperson—usually a former Chief Justice or judge. Although hailed as a milestone for accountability, Lokpal and Lokayuktas face challenges in administrative support, overlapping jurisdictions with CBI, and political interference. Nonetheless, they remain a pivotal step in reinforcing transparency and integrity, upholding the constitutional ethos of clean governance.