Consider the following statements about Lokpal:
I. The power of Lokpal applies to public servants of India, but not to the Indian public servants posted outside India.
II. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a Member of the Parliament or a Member of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory, and only the Chief Justice of India, whether incumbent or retired, has to be its Chairperson.
III. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a person of less than forty-five years of age on the date of assuming office as the Chairperson or Member, as the case may be.
IV. Lokpal cannot inquire into the allegations of corruption against a sitting Prime Minister of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.III only
- B.II and III
- C.I and IV
- D.None of the above statements is correct
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: A. III only
The Lokpal has jurisdiction over public servants in India and also those posted outside India. The Chairperson must be a person who has held the office of Chief Justice of India or a Judge of the Supreme Court, or an eminent person. The minimum age requirement for the Chairperson or a Member of the Lokpal is 45 years. Importantly, the Lokpal can inquire into allegations of corruption against a sitting Prime Minister, subject to certain procedural safeguards.
Source: UPSC gs1 2025