How Lokpal is appointed and what are the scope of functions of Lokpal ?

Appointment Process and Comprehensive Scope of Functions of Lokpal in India:

1. Statutory Mandate & Composition:
Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, Lokpal is a multi-member anti-corruption ombudsman consisting of a Chairperson and up to 8 members (50% Judicial members; 50% minimum representation from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/Women).

2. High-Powered Appointment Process:
Appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a Five-Member Selection Committee:

1. Prime Minister (Chairperson)
2. Speaker of the Lok Sabha (Member)
3. Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha (Member)
4. Chief Justice of India (CJI) or a nominated Supreme Court Judge (Member)
5. An Eminent Jurist (nominated by the President based on consensus)

(Assisted by an independent Search Committee for initial panel screening.)

3. Comprehensive Scope of Jurisdiction & Functions:

• All-Encompassing Coverage: Covers the Prime Minister (with external security/space carve-outs), Union Ministers, MPs, and all Central Government officers across Groups A, B, C, and D.
• Superintendence over CBI: Exercises statutory oversight over the CBI regarding referred corruption cases, protecting investigating officers from arbitrary executive transfers.
• Civil Court & Confiscation Powers: Vested with powers of search, seizure, summoning witnesses, and provisional attachment of ill-gotten corrupt properties.
• Dedicated Prosecution Wing: Initiating speedy prosecution in dedicated Special Anti-Corruption Courts.