Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
Institutional Framework
The Lokpal is a statutory ombudsman established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 to inquire into allegations of corruption against public functionaries including the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and certain categories of government servants. The first Lokpal of India, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, was appointed in 2019 — after nearly five decades of the institution's legislative journey (the first Lokpal Bill was introduced in 1968). Key provisions include the power to investigate, grant prosecution sanction, and refer matters to the CBI.
- Lokpal Act, 2013: Section 20 — Lokpal can grant prosecution sanction after preliminary inquiry and investigation; CBI cannot file chargesheet against a serving or former MP without Lokpal sanction
- Lokpal jurisdiction: covers PM (with restrictions), Union Ministers, MPs, Group A to D central government employees, and employees of certain bodies
- Prosecution sanction requirement: a constitutional and statutory safeguard to prevent abuse of criminal law against public servants — but also criticised as a shield against accountability
- Lokpal is a multi-member body: 1 Chairperson (former CJI or SC judge) + 8 Members (at least 50% from judicial background; at least 50% from SC/ST/OBC/minorities/women)
● Tracked since March 13, 2026 · last seen May 12, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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