Explain the proposed office of Lokpal in the law and his jurisdictions in India.

Office of Lokpal and Its Jurisdiction (Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013):

The Lokpal is a statutory apex anti-corruption ombudsman established to inquire into allegations of corruption against public functionaries.

• Structure (Section 3): Consists of a Chairperson (former CJI / SC Judge or eminent jurist) and up to 8 Members (50% Judicial Members, and 50% from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/Women). Appointed by President on the recommendation of a Selection Committee (PM, Speaker, LoP, CJI, Eminent Jurist).
• Extensive Jurisdiction (Section 14):
  • Prime Minister: Covered with specific procedural safeguards (full bench hearing, in-camera inquiry, exclusion of international relations/security/atomic energy).
  • Union Ministers & MPs: All Union Ministers and Members of Parliament (excluding speeches/votes inside Parliament under Art. 105).
  • Public Servants: All Group A, B, C, and D central government officers and employees.
  • NGOs & Trusts: Entities receiving foreign donations >₹10 Lakhs/year or annual government grants >₹1 Crore.
• Powers: Supervisory powers over CBI for referred cases, powers of a Civil Court, and authority to order provisional attachment of corrupt assets.