uplokayukta

The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, provides for the establishment of a Lokpal at the Union level and Lokayuktas at the State level. The Lokpal is an anti-corruption ombudsman charged with investigating allegations of corruption against public servants. The Lokayuktas perform a similar function at the state level. The institution of Lokayukta was first recommended by the Administrative Reforms Commission in 1966. The first Lokayukta was established in Maharashtra in 1971.

The jurisdiction of Lokpal and Lokayuktas typically covers high-ranking public functionaries, including the Prime Minister (with certain exceptions), ministers, members of Parliament, and officials in groups A and B. State Lokayuktas have jurisdiction over state-level public servants, including the Chief Minister, ministers, and members of the state legislature. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas act on complaints received from citizens alleging corruption. They have powers to inquire into such complaints and, if found guilty, to recommend action such as prosecution, recovery of money, or departmental proceedings. The process usually involves preliminary inquiry, investigation, and then a decision based on the findings. The aim is to provide a mechanism for redressing grievances against corruption in public administration.