Contrary to expectations surrounding its enactment, the institution of Lokpal has not proved path-breaking in dismantling the structures of corruption in public life. Analyze.

The Lokpal was enacted as an institution ombudsman, to act against ministers, MPs and Group A,B,C,D officers of central government and all India services in receipt of complaint

However, it was expected to usher in an era of accountability of the higher echelons, and punishment of the guilty.

However, it has not proved path-breaking, as —

1. Not many penalties imposed by Lokpal yet

2. No permanent office infrastructure built yet

3. Delay in appointments of members of Lokpal-

4. Lack of consensus in appointing committee

of Lokpal, thus evoking allegations of partisan behaviour of Lokpal.

Steps should be taken to ensure neutral image

Steps should be taken to ensure neutral image of Lokpal, while law should be used to give it more teeth