Lokpal of India Foundation Day – January 16

Why in News?

The Lokpal of India observes its Foundation Day every year on January 16. This day marks the enforcement of Section 3 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, through which the Lokpal was formally established in 2014

From Exam Point of View:

Lokpal functions as the country’s apex anti-corruption ombudsman at the central level, tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against public officials.

• Establishment: Came into existence on January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• Objective: To inquire into and investigate corruption cases involving public functionaries at the Union level.
• Origin: Based on the Scandinavian concept of an “Ombudsman.”
• Indian Context: The term “Lokpal” was coined by Dr. L. M. Singhvi in 1963.

Composition & Appointment

• The Lokpal comprises a Chairperson and up to 8 members. The Chairperson can be a former Chief Justice of India, Supreme Court judge, or a distinguished person with expertise in anti-corruption matters.
• Members are appointed by the President based on recommendations of a selection committee headed by the Prime Minister, including the Lok Sabha Speaker, Leader of Opposition, Chief Justice of India (or nominee), and an eminent jurist.

Tenure:

The Chairperson and members hold office for 5 years or until attaining 70 years of age, whichever is earlier