Lokpal forms Inquiry Wing to probe graft cases against public servants | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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    Lokpal forms Inquiry Wing to probe graft cases against public servants

    Posted 16 Sep 2024

    2 min read

    Lokpal of India has established an inquiry wing under Section 11 of Lokpal and Lokayukta act 2013, to discharge its statutory functions.

    About Inquiry Wing of Lokpal  

    • Purpose: To conduct a preliminary inquiry into any offense alleged to have been committed by a public servant punishable under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. 
    • Timeline: Submit inquiry report to Lokpal within 60 days.
    • Composition: Headed by Director of Inquiry under Lokpal chairperson. 
      • Director will be assisted by 3 Superintendents of Police (SPs) - SP (general), SP (economic and banking) and SP (cyber). 
      • Each SP will be further assisted by inquiry officers and other staff.
    • It shall have all powers of civil court, under Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.

    About Lokpal 

    • An anti-corruption ombudsman established by Lokpal & Lokayuktas Act, 2013 to investigate & prosecute corruption cases involving public servants.
    • Consists of a chairperson & 8 members with 50% are judicial members, appointed by President.
      • Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh (2019) was 1st Lokpal. Justice AM Khanwilkar is current Lokpal. 
    • Power of superintendence & direction over any central investigation agency including CBI for cases referred to them by Lokpal.

    Issues with Lokpal 

    • Vacancies: Lokpal yet to constitute prosecution wing headed by Director of Prosecution.
    • Limitation of 7 years set by Act for filing complaints can prevent victims or whistleblowers from filing complaints after the initial offenses have occurred.
    • Ineffectiveness: Lokpal disposed of 68% corruption complaints against public servants without any action.
    • Tags :
    • Lokpal
    • Inquiry Wing
    • Lokpal & Lokayuktas Act, 2013
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