Lokpal and CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation)
Why in news?
The Delhi High Court recently set aside the Lokpal's order granting sanction to the CBI for filing a chargesheet against a MP in the cash-for-query case.
Lokpal
- Meaning: Derived from Sanskrit LokpΓΒla (“Defender of People”).
- Established: Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013; operational since 2019.
- Nature: Independent statutory body functioning as an ombudsman.
- Jurisdiction:
- Prime Minister (with safeguards), Union Ministers, MPs.
- Officials of Union government (Groups A–D).
- Functions:
- Enquires into allegations of corruption against public servants.
- Refers cases to investigative agencies like the CBI.
- Ensures accountability and transparency in governance.
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
- Established: 1963 (via Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946).
- Nature: Premier investigative police agency of India.
- Parent Agency: Department of Personnel & Training, under Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
- Jurisdiction: Entire India, but requires state consent for investigations in states (except when directed by courts).
- Functions:
- Investigates corruption, economic offenses, serious crimes.
- Assists Lokpal and Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
- Coordinates with Interpol for international investigations.
- Conviction Rate: Around 65–70%, among the highest globally.
Key Insights & Challenges
- Overlap: Lokpal depends on CBI for investigation, but CBI itself is under government control, raising concerns about independence.
- State Consent Issue: CBI cannot freely investigate in states without permission, limiting its reach.
- Effectiveness: Lokpal is relatively new and still evolving, while CBI has decades of experience but faces criticism of political influence.
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