Section 14 of LLA : Section 14: Jurisdiction Of Lokpal To Include Prime Minister, Ministers, Members Of Parliament, Groups A, B, C And D Officers And Officials Of Central Government

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a whistleblower submits a complaint to the Lokpal, alleging that a high-ranking official, who is a Group 'A' officer of a central government department, has been involved in corrupt practices by accepting bribes in exchange for awarding government contracts. The complaint includes substantial evidence supporting the allegations.

Under Section 14 of The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, the Lokpal would have the authority to initiate an inquiry into these allegations. The Lokpal would conduct or cause an inquiry to be conducted into the matter, as the official in question falls under the category of a public servant as defined in clause (d) of sub-section (1).

If during the investigation it is found that a business entity, which is partly financed by the central government and has an annual income exceeding the amount specified by the Central Government, is also involved in the corruption case, the Lokpal would extend the inquiry to include the directors and officers of this entity as per clauses (f) and (g).

However, if the alleged corruption was related to the official's speech or vote in Parliament, then as per sub-section (2), the Lokpal would not inquire into this matter, as it is protected under clause (2) of article 105 of the Constitution.