The Lokpal is an independent body that inquires into corruption complaints against Union public servants, including the Prime Minister (with some exceptions), ministers, MPs and officials. Lokpal bills were introduced repeatedly from 1968 but passed only in December 2013, after the Jan Lokpal movement led by Anna Hazare; the President assented on 1 January 2014.
Key facts
- Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act passed December 2013, assent 1 January 2014; first Lokpal appointed March 2019.
- Chairperson plus up to eight members, half judicial; at least half from SC, ST, OBC, minorities or women.
- Jurisdiction covers the PM, ministers, MPs and Group A to D officials, plus bodies funded by the Centre.
- Current chairperson: Justice A. M. Khanwilkar, since March 2024. (as of 23 Oct 2026)
Why exams ask about it
The first chairperson, the Act's year, the composition and the Anna Hazare link are the usual questions.