Lokpal of India Commemorates First Foundation Day

On January 16, 2025, the Lokpal of India celebrated its inaugural Foundation Day at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, marking 11 years since its establishment on January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was graced by Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who served as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included:

• Justice N. Santosh Hegde, former Supreme Court Judge and ex-Lokayukta of Karnataka
• Padma Bhushan awardee Anna Hazare (participated virtually)
• Attorney General of India, R. Venkataramani
• Judges from the Supreme Court and various High Courts
• Lokayuktas from different states
• Representatives from the Bar Council of India and other legal associations
• Officials from organizations such as the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

Chairperson’s Address

Justice A.M. Khanwilkar, Chairperson of the Lokpal, highlighted the institution’s origin from a transformative civil society movement advocating for an ombudsman to combat corruption. He emphasized the evolving nature of corruption and the necessity for the Lokpal to adapt accordingly. Justice Khanwilkar outlined strategies to enhance the Lokpal’s effectiveness, including:

• Simplifying the complaint registration process
• Integrating advanced technologies and artificial intelligence for efficient data management
• Recruiting experts in forensic accounting and cyber investigations
• Collaborating with agencies like the CBI, CVC, and the judiciary to form a united front against corruption

Chief Justice’s Remarks

Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna underscored the Lokpal’s role in upholding democratic principles by ensuring governmental accountability and transparency. He stressed that public trust is fundamental to democracy and that institutions like the Lokpal serve as antidotes to the pervasive issue of corruption. The Chief Justice also highlighted the importance of the Lokpal’s independence, objectivity, and performance in maintaining public confidence.

Looking Ahead

The Foundation Day celebration not only reflected on the Lokpal’s journey over the past decade but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a corruption-free India. By adopting multifaceted strategies and embracing technological advancements, the Lokpal aims to strengthen its processes and enhance public trust in its mission

Summary of the news

Key Point	Details
Why in News	Lokpal of India celebrated its 1st Foundation Day on January 16, 2025, marking 11 years since its establishment.
Established	January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
Chairperson	Justice A.M. Khanwilkar
Key Dignitaries	Chief Justice of India Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice N. Santosh Hegde (former Lokayukta), Anna Hazare (virtual)
Purpose	Anti-corruption ombudsman to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Strategies Highlighted	Simplify complaints, adopt technology (AI, forensic tools), collaborate with CBI, CVC, and judiciary.
Key Agencies Involved	CBI, CVC, Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).