In a significant development, former Supreme Court judge A M Khanwilkar has been appointed as the chairperson of the Lokpal, India's anti-corruption ombudsman. This announcement was made on Tuesday by the Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking a crucial step in bolstering the country's efforts against corruption.
Justice Khanwilkar brings with him a wealth of experience and legal acumen, having retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022. His tenure on the bench was marked by a steadfast commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.
Joining Justice Khanwilkar on the Lokpal are several distinguished individuals appointed as judicial and non-judicial members. Among them are former high court judges Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Sanjay Yadav, and Ritu Raj Awasthi, who have been appointed as judicial members. Their collective expertise and insight into the legal landscape will undoubtedly enrich the Lokpal's deliberations and decisions.
In addition to the judicial members, the Lokpal will also benefit from the diverse perspectives offered by its non-judicial members. Sushil Chandra, Pankaj Kumar, and Ajay Tirkey have been appointed to these positions, bringing with them valuable insights from their respective fields.
The appointment of these esteemed individuals to the Lokpal reflects the government's commitment to strengthening India's anti-corruption framework. With their appointment, the Lokpal is poised to play a pivotal role in combatting corruption and ensuring accountability across all levels of governance.
The Lokpal, established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, serves as an independent body tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against public servants and elected officials. It embodies the nation's collective resolve to root out corruption and promote transparency and integrity in public life.
As India continues its journey towards greater transparency and accountability, the appointment of Justice A M Khanwilkar and other members to the Lokpal represents a significant milestone. Their collective wisdom and dedication to upholding the principles of justice will undoubtedly strengthen the institution and bolster public trust in the fight against corruption.