Section 23 of LLA : Section 23: Power Of Lokpal To Grant Sanction For Initiating Prosecution

Explanation using Example

Imagine a situation where a government official is accused of corruption during the execution of a public infrastructure project. Normally, for prosecuting such a public servant, prior sanction would be required from the competent authority as per the existing laws like the Code of Criminal Procedure or the Prevention of Corruption Act.

However, under Section 23 of The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, if the Lokpal finds substantial evidence of wrongdoing, it can bypass these requirements and directly grant sanction for the prosecution of the accused official. This means the Lokpal has the authority to initiate legal proceedings against the official without waiting for permission from any other government authority.

In this hypothetical case, the Lokpal's power to grant sanction for prosecution ensures that the investigation into the corrupt practices is not hindered by bureaucratic procedures and that the accused can be brought to trial promptly.