[Indian Polity Study Materials] Ombudsman - Lokpal,Lokayuktas - Indian Polity Study Materials for TNPSC Exams

Lokpal

Lokpal is an anti-corruption authority that would deal with the complaints against the public officials in central government including the Prime Minister.

Lokayuktas

Lokayuktas is an anti-corruption authority that would deal with the complaints against the public officials in state government.

Ombudsman

• Ombudsman is a swedish term which means - a person who is authorised to act for someone else.
• In general it means, an official appointed to investigate complaints especially against the public officials.
• In India Ombudsman is referred as either Lokpal or Lokayukas. 

Important Facts to remember

1. The First country in the world to set up ombudsman institution is Sweden in 1809.
2. The First Commonwealth country in the world to set up ombudsman institution is New Zealand in 1967.
3. The Term Lokpal was coined by L M Singvi in 1963.
4. The Word 'Lok' means - People and 'Pala' means - protector.
5. The Administrative reforms commission (1966-70) headed by Morarji Desai recommended the institution of Lokpal and Lokayuktas.
6. Lokpal Bill was first introduced in Parliament in 1968 but cannot be passed.
7. Important Dates for Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013
• Passed in Parliament - Dec 18, 2013
• President's Assent - Jan 1, 2014
• Date of commencement - Jan 16, 2014.
8. The First State in India to establish Lokayukta was - Maharashtra in 1971.
9. The First State in India to pass Lokayukta act was - Odissa in 1970.

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