Sunday, June 19, 2011

Lokpal and ramifications for India

Analysis of events happening in the world from the political outbreak in Libya to the latest Anna Hazare episode in India reveals the fact that a revolution of sorts is happening.

The notable fact of the Anna Hazare movement is that the youth were out in full strength of the movement.Social media has added to the momentum.The media has gone berserk with the catchy headlines on this issue.The important question in the midst of all this is -- How does an effective Lokpal gets passed in the Parliament .

There were interesting questions being fired at Union HRD Minister Mr Kapil Sibal on the NDTV - 24X7 News channel yesterday --

1)Does the Prime Minister have to brought under the gambit of the Lokpal?

The argument of the HRD minister was that brining the PM under the ambit of the Lokpal would result in an unstable democracy.He further added that the PM can be brought under the Lokpal once he leaves office.

My take on this --- If we have an efficient Lokpal commitee , why would a weak case be raised against the PM in the first place?


2)Will the Lokpal have a separate investigative agency?
Yes , the Lokpal should have a separate investigative agency ,as this agency would be the backbone of the Lokpal and would ensure the success of this plan.Any trace of corruption would make the public to view this agency just like any other Governmental agency.The aim should be to have this agency as a reputed organization earning the respect of the people of this country.

3)Who will appoint the staff of the Lokpal?
A mechanism will have to be worked out to decide on this point.

The answers to these questions are of vital importance to India achieving a strong and vibrant democracy.For the first time in years , the Goverment of India is in the dark as it has a huge challenge on facing these crucial questions.This episode has certainly provided light at the end of a tunnel for a system neck deep in corruption.

The coming days will be full of action and thamasha.Watching out for the drama to unfold.

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