The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011, introduced on December 22, 2011, was passed by the Lok Sabha on December 27, 2011. The Bill was taken up for consideration and passing in the Rajya Sabha, which referred it to a Select Committee (Chairperson: Shri Satyavrat Chaturvedi). The Committee is scheduled to submit its report by the last week of the Monsoon session.
The Bill provides for establishment of the Lokpal at the centre and Lokayuktas in the states for inquiring into complaints of corruption against certain public servants. The Bill, once passed, shall be applicable to states if they give their consent to its application.
The members of the Lokpal (Lokayuktas) shall be appointed by the President (Governor) on the basis of the recommendations of the Selection Committee.
The Selection Committee for the Lokpal shall comprise of the Prime Minister (Chief Minister), Speaker of the Lower House, Leaders of the Opposition of the Lower House, the Chief Justice of India (Chief Justice of the High Court) or a judge of the Supreme Court nominated by him, and an eminent jurist nominated by the President (Governor). The Bill makes it mandatory for the Selection Committee to constitute a search committee of at least seven members. At least 50% of the members shall be from among SC, ST, OBC, women or minority communities. The Selection Committee may consider a candidate other than one recommended by the Search