Discuss the Detail the rationale, Structure, Jurisdiction of Lokpal at the national level and Lokayukatas at the states level.

The Lokpal at the national level and Lokayuktas at the state level are anti-corruption ombudsman institutions established to address grievances related to corruption, promote transparency, and hold public officials accountable. Here's a detailed discussion of their rationale, structure, and jurisdiction:

Rationale:

1. Combatting Corruption: The primary rationale behind the establishment of Lokpal and Lokayuktas is to combat corruption in public administration by investigating allegations of corruption, misconduct, and abuse of power by public servants.
2. Promoting Accountability: These institutions aim to promote accountability and integrity in governance by providing an independent and impartial mechanism for citizens to report corruption and hold public officials accountable for their actions.
3. Ensuring Transparency: Lokpal and Lokayuktas work towards ensuring transparency in government functioning by investigating complaints of corruption, recommending disciplinary action against erring officials, and promoting good governance practices.
4. Empowering Citizens: By providing a platform for citizens to report corruption and seek redressal of grievances, Lokpal and Lokayuktas empower citizens to actively participate in the fight against corruption and contribute to building a more accountable and transparent governance system.

Structure:

1. Lokpal (National Level):

   • The Lokpal is a high-level anti-corruption institution established at the national level under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
   • It consists of a Chairperson and a maximum of 8 members, including judicial and non-judicial members, appointed by the President of India based on recommendations from a selection committee.
   • The Lokpal is supported by a Secretariat to assist in the investigation of complaints and other administrative functions.

2. Lokayuktas (State Level):

   • Lokayuktas are anti-corruption ombudsman institutions established at the state level under state-specific legislation, such as the Lokayukta Act.
   • The structure of Lokayuktas varies from state to state but typically consists of a Lokayukta (Chairperson) and Upa-Lokayuktas (Deputy Chairpersons), along with members appointed by the Governor of the state.
   • Lokayuktas may also have their own Secretariat and administrative staff to support their functions and operations.

Jurisdiction:

1. Lokpal (National Level):

   • The Lokpal has jurisdiction over complaints of corruption and misconduct against public servants at the national level, including the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and senior government officials.
   • It investigates complaints of corruption referred to it by the President of India or received directly from citizens, and has the authority to conduct inquiries, summon witnesses, and recommend disciplinary action or prosecution.

2. Lokayuktas (State Level):

   • Lokayuktas have jurisdiction over complaints of corruption and misconduct against public servants at the state level, including Chief Ministers, Ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and state government officials.
   • They investigate complaints of corruption referred to them by the Governor of the state or received directly from citizens, and have powers similar to Lokpal to conduct inquiries, summon witnesses, and recommend action or prosecution.

In conclusion, Lokpal at the national level and Lokayuktas at the state level play crucial roles in combating corruption, promoting accountability, and ensuring transparency in governance. Their establishment reflects a commitment to strengthening anti-corruption measures and empowering citizens to participate in the fight against corruption.