Lokpal of India Marks Foundation Day, Reiterates Resolve for Clean and Accountable Governance

The Lokpal of India observed its Foundation Day on 16 January 2026, marking another milestone in India’s fight against corruption. Established to uphold integrity and accountability in public life, the institution used the occasion to reflect on its journey so far and to reaffirm its commitment to transparent and ethical governance rooted in constitutional values.

Why in News?

The Lokpal of India observed its Foundation Day on 16 January 2026, commemorating the coming into force of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which established the institution in 2014.

Foundation Day Observance and Significance

• The Foundation Day function was held at the Lokpal of India office in New Delhi in a modest in-house manner, reflecting fiscal prudence and austerity.
• This day is significant as it marks the legal establishment of Lokpal under Section 3 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• The occasion serves as a moment of reflection on the institution’s progress, challenges, and evolving role in strengthening democratic accountability and public trust in governance.

Leadership and Key Dignitaries Present

• The event was held in the presence of Chairperson Justice A. M. Khanwilkar along with several Judicial and Non-Judicial Members of the Lokpal.
• Senior members highlighted the constitutional responsibility entrusted to the institution and its unique position as an independent body mandated to inquire into corruption allegations against public functionaries, including those at the highest levels.
• The gathering symbolised continuity, institutional maturity, and collective resolve to uphold fairness and due process.

Vision Behind the Lokpal Institution

• In his address, the Chairperson recalled the sacrifices and efforts of individuals like Anna Hazare and former Lokayukta Justice N. Santosh Hegde, whose efforts reflected the long-standing public demand for a strong anti-corruption mechanism.
• Lokpal was envisioned as a body “by the people, of the people, and for the people,” ensuring independent and objective inquiry while strictly adhering to the rule of law and principles of natural justice.

Rising Public Trust and Performance

• The Chairperson highlighted that the number of complaints received by the Lokpal has increased steadily over the past two years, with projections for 2025–26 showing a sharp rise compared to the previous year.
• This increase reflects growing public awareness and confidence in approaching the Lokpal for redressal.
• Enhanced bench sittings and proactive case handling have ensured minimal pendency and timely disposal, reinforcing public faith in the institution’s efficiency and fairness.

Lokpal of India

Heading	Details
What is Lokpal?	A statutory anti-corruption body Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 Created to strengthen institutional accountability at the Union level
Mandate	To inquire into allegations of corruption Against certain public functionaries For matters connected with the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
Organisational Structure	Consists of, 1 Chairperson 8 Members 4 Members must be Judicial Members At least 50% Members must be from, SC / ST / OBC Minorities Women
Eligibility Criteria	Chairperson, Former Chief Justice of India, or Former Judge of the Supreme Court, or An eminent person fulfilling prescribed criteria Judicial Member, Former Judge of the Supreme Court, or Former Chief Justice of a High Court
Appointment of Members	Appointed by the President of India On the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of, Prime Minister (Chairperson) Speaker of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Chief Justice of India (or a Judge nominated by him/her) One eminent jurist
Tenure	5 years from the date of assuming office Or till attaining 70 years of age Whichever is earlier
Jurisdiction of Lokpal	Allegations of corruption against, Prime Minister Union Ministers Members of Parliament Central Government officials (Groups A, B, C & D) Also covers, Chairpersons, members, officers, and directors of: Boards, corporations, societies, trusts, autonomous bodies Established by Parliament or funded fully/partly by Union or State Government Any body receiving foreign contribution above ₹10 lakh

Question

Q. The Lokpal of India was established under which Act?

A. Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
B. Central Vigilance Commission Act
C. Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
D. Right to Information Act, 2005