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Parliamentary panel questions delay in Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013 implementation, seeks timeline for Investigation Branch chief
The Parliamentary Committee has expressed concern over the delay of more than 10 years in appointing the head of the Lokpal's Investigation Branch. The Committee has sought information from the government on the Lokpal's active work and investigation process.
Despite the fact that the bill to create the Lokpal was passed more than 10 years ago, no person has been appointed to the post of the head of the Investigation Branch of the Lokpal.
The Parliamentary Committee is seeking information from the government regarding the Lokpal post. They want to know when the Lokpal will commence its functions and how the Lokpal will carry out the investigation.
India enacted the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act to fight corruption in the country. The act was enacted in 2013, and the Lokpal started functioning from January 1, 2014. However, the Lokpal appointments began on March 27, 2019.
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According to Article 11 of the Lokpal Act, the Lokpal can create an Investigation Branch. The Investigation Branch is headed by a Director-grade officer. This branch will investigate corruption cases.
The Investigation Branch, functioning under the Lokpal, has the authority to investigate senior officials and public representatives holding government positions.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Appointments, Public Grievances, and Law Affairs has been informed by the government that the process for the Director of the Investigation Branch and other positions is underway.
The Standing Committee expressed surprise at this status of appointments. It stated that the role of the Investigation Branch of the Lokpal is crucial. It can contribute to the anti-corruption campaign in collaboration with other central investigative agencies. This will strengthen the campaign.
Currently, the CBI is the apex agency responsible for anti-corruption action in the country. Its institutional structure and workforce are active in the country.
