Which of the following categories of officials fall under the jurisdiction of Lokpal?

1. Any person who is or has been a Prime Minister.

2. Any person who is or has been a Minister of the Union.

3. Any person who is or has been a member of either House of Parliament.

4. Any person who is or has been a chairperson or member in any body established by an Act of Parliament or wholly or partly financed by the Central Government.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

The correct answer is option 4.

In News

• The Supreme Court has decided to examine the scope of Lokpal’s jurisdiction, particularly if judges of constitutional courts come within the jurisdiction of the country’s top ombudsman.

Key Points

• Any person who is or has been a Prime Minister falls under Lokpal’s jurisdiction, except in cases related to international relations, internal security, atomic energy, etc.
  • Hence, point 1 is correct.
• Any person who is or has been a Minister of the Union is subject to Lokpal’s jurisdiction for corruption-related inquiries.
  • Hence, point 2 is correct.
• Any person who is or has been a member of either House of Parliament can be investigated, except for votes or statements made in Parliament under Article 105(2).
  • Hence, point 3 is correct.
• Lokpal can also investigate the chairpersons or members of bodies established by an Act of Parliament or those funded/controlled by the Central Government.
  • Hence, point 4 is correct.

Additional Information

• Group A and B officers of the Central Government also fall under Lokpal’s jurisdiction.
• Officials of organizations receiving foreign contributions above a certain limit are covered under the Lokpal Act.
• Lokpal requires State Government consent to investigate officials under State jurisdiction.
• The Lokpal Act was enacted to enhance accountability and strengthen anti-corruption measures in public offices.