Academic literature on the topic 'Lokpal and Lokayuktas'

In this research, we set out to comprehend the ombudsman idea and find the problems with its implementation by conducting a thorough examination of its history, development, and operation in various regions of the globe. In light of the foregoing and in light of international precedents for ombudsman schemes, the following recommendations are put forth: (i) the establishment of a unified regulatory body overseeing all state lokayukts to standardize their respective jurisdictions and the means by which complaints are addressed; (ii) the transmission of technical circulars from insurance companies to the Ombudsman's office; and (iii) the regular updating of annual reports on complaints filed and resolved in the online platforms of electricity ombudsman, Lokpal, and other ombudsman; and (iii) the modification of appeal provisions in other types of ombudsman, similar to that of the Banking Ombudsman. A step forward towards good governance may be achieved by using extracts from this research to elevate the position of ombudsman among the Indian populace, since it offers a comprehensive and well-organized review of all the many facets of the position.

Public Interest Litigation has emerged as a crucial mechanism for ensuring justice and accountability in both the United States and India. Originally conceived to provide marginalized individuals and groups with the opportunity to seek judicial relief, PIL has evolved differently in these two countries. In the United States, the strict legal concept of “locus standi” has traditionally limited access to courts to those with a direct and tangible interest in the case. However, PIL in the U.S. has still played a pivotal role in civil rights, environmental law, and other areas of public concern, such as seen in landmark cases like Brown v. Board of Education and Massachusetts v. EPA . In contrast, India has adopted a more expansive approach to locus standi, allowing not only those directly affected but also social organizations and public-spirited citizens to file PILs on behalf of others. This inclusive approach has significantly transformed India’s legal landscape, providing greater access to justice and promoting social reforms. Landmark cases like SP Gupta v. Union of India and Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan highlight the impact of PIL in addressing human rights violations, environmental degradation, and social injustices.Furthermore, the concept of accountability within governance in India is reinforced through the establishment of institutions like the Lokpal and Lokayukta, aimed at combating corruption within the public sector. The Lokpal, created through the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act of 2013, and the state-level Lokayuktas serve as mechanisms for transparency and accountability, though challenges persist regarding their independence and effectiveness.This paper explores the development of PIL in the USA and India, the evolution of locus standi, its role in expanding access to justice, and the legal frameworks of Lokpal and Lokayukta in India, providing a comparative analysis of PIL’s role in promoting public welfare in both countries.