Appointment process begins for new Lokpal chief

One-liner: The Centre has begun the process for appointment of the next chief of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal as the incumbent is set to complete his term later this month.

Eight members: The Lokpal is headed by a chairperson and can have eight members -- four judicial and the rest non-judicial

Vacant for two years: At present, there are six members in the Lokpal and the two posts of judicial members have been lying vacant for over two years.

Chairperson: President Ram Nath Kovind had on March 23, 2019, administered the oath of office to Justice Ghose as the chairperson of the Lokpal.

Process started: Justice Ghose will be completing his term on May 27. A process has been started for the appointment of the next chief of Lokpal.

Five-year term: A Lokpal chief and members are appointed for a term of five years or until attaining the age of 70 years.

Corruption complaints: Lokpal had received 4,244 corruption complaints between April 2021 and Jan 31, 2022, a jump of over 80% from 2020 to 2021.

Source: PTI