Q. Consider the following statements with reference to Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013:
1. Lokpal’s jurisdiction covers all categories of public servants of the Union including those belonging to Groups C and D.
2. Lokpal can Suo motu proceed against any public servant.
3. Under the act, any person can file an anonymous complaint against a public servant.
4. The Lokpal has the power of superintendence and direction over any central investigating agency.
How many of the above given statements are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct. The Lokpal has jurisdiction to inquire into allegations of corruption against anyone who is or has been Prime Minister, or a Minister in the Union government, or a Member of Parliament, as well as officials of the Union government under Groups A, B, C and D.
Statement 2 and 3 are incorrect. The following are the drawbacks of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013:
- Lokpal cannot Suo motu proceed against any public servant.
- Heavy punishment for false and frivolous complaints against public servants may deter complaints being filed to Lokpal.
- Anonymous complaints not allowed -Can’t just make a complaint on plain paper and drop it in a box with supporting documents.
- Limitation period of 7 years to file complaints.
Statement 4 is correct. The Lokpal has the power of superintendence and direction over any central investigating agency, including the CBI, for cases referred to them by the Lokpal
