Q. Consider the following statements about the Lokpal and Lokayukta under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013:
1.The Lokpal can initiate investigations into corruption allegations suo motu without requiring a formal complaint.
2.The Prime Minister is entirely excluded from the jurisdiction of the Lokpal.
3.The Lokpal consists of a Chairperson and up to eight members, with at least 50% of the members being from judicial backgrounds.
4.The Selection Committee for appointing the Lokpal includes the Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge nominated by them.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Lokpal cannot initiate investigations suo motu; it requires a formal complaint as per Section 2(1)(a) of the Act.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Prime Minister is under the Lokpal’s jurisdiction, except for allegations related to international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, and space.
Statement 3 is correct: The Lokpal comprises a Chairperson and up to eight members, with 50% being judicial members (former Supreme Court judges or High Court Chief Justices).
Statement 4 is correct: The Selection Committee includes the Chief Justice of India (or a Supreme Court judge nominated by them), the Prime Minister, the Lok Sabha Speaker, the Leader of Opposition, and an eminent jurist.
