LOKPAL AND LOKAYUKTA

On the recommendation of the Administrative Reforms Commission, the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act was set up and enacted in the year 2013, with the contention of addressing matters and disputes related to corruption or bribery.

Corruption in general refers to the use of unauthorised and excessive power by any individual and using dishonest means of getting any work or act done by any other individual or body. Bribery is the most common form of corruption wherein people pay money to any individual or body, to perform certain activity or act which is dishonest and not in line with the legal system and procedures. 

While Lokpal, is concerned with legislating the issues of bribery and corruption on the central level, the Lokayuktas however, have been set up in individual states within the country, with Maharashtra being the first one to establish them. Although both the institutions are anti-corruption bodies, yet they differ in the level and nature of work they tend to do, moreover, the jurisdictions, number of members, the persons who govern these bodies etc., are all different. 

The Lokpal, is considered as an ombudsman, wherein it addresses complaints of the citizens of the country against any person holding certain public position or any public officer within the country, such as politicians or members of the Parliament etc, at the central level. 

Lokayukta on the other hand, is set up in each and every state, with the purpose of settling down disputes and taking measures against any individuals, who tend to perform or accept such dishonest activities. The Lokayukta can accept suits related to the member of the state legislative assemblies, or any public officers working at such positions and also any other individuals who might enter into such activities. In such a case, the Lokayukta issues orders against complaint file by any resident of the State. 

The Lokayukta generally consists of three members, wherein the Governor of the state decided upon members who shall form the committee of the Lokayukta. As far as the Chairperson is concerned, any judge of the Supreme Court or Chief Justice or Judge of the High Court can be appointed. 

The Lokpal on the other hand consists of a maximum of eight members, since it works on a much larger level than the Lokayuktas. The Chairperson can be the ex-Chief Justice of India or an ex-judge of the Supreme Court or any judicial member who has an expertise and knowledge in laws and issues relating to corruption/bribery/vigilance etc., for a period of more than 25 years.