Overview of the "Lokpal and Lokayuktas" section in Paper 2:

The "Lokpal and Lokayuktas" section in Paper 2 of the UPSC exam focuses on the constitutional provisions, structure, functions, and significance of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas in India. It aims to evaluate the candidate's understanding of these anti-corruption institutions and their role in promoting transparency and accountability in public administration.

Key Pointers:
1. Lokpal:
- The Lokpal is an anti-corruption ombudsman at the central level established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
- It consists of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members, appointed by the President of India.
- The Lokpal is responsible for inquiring into allegations of corruption against public servants, including the Prime Minister, ministers, Members of Parliament, and central government employees.
- It has the power to investigate, prosecute, and recommend disciplinary action against corrupt officials.

2. Lokayuktas:
- Lokayuktas are similar anti-corruption institutions at the state level, established under state-level legislation.
- They are responsible for investigating corruption complaints against public servants in the state government, including the Chief Minister, ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and state government employees.
- The structure and functions of Lokayuktas vary from state to state, as they are established through state legislation.

3. Constitutional Provisions:
- The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, was enacted to give effect to Article 61 of the Indian Constitution, which provides for the establishment of a Lokpal at the central level and Lokayuktas at the state level.
- Article 253 of the Constitution grants Parliament the power to enact laws for implementing international agreements, such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which necessitated the establishment of the Lokpal.

4. Functions and Powers:
- The Lokpal and Lokayuktas have the power to receive complaints, conduct investigations, and initiate prosecution against public servants accused of corruption.
- They can also recommend disciplinary action, including removal, against corrupt officials.
- The Lokpal has the power to attach and confiscate the properties acquired through corrupt means.
- They can also recommend changes in the systems and procedures to reduce corruption and promote transparency.

5. Significance:
- The establishment of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas is a significant step towards combating corruption and ensuring accountability in public administration.
- These institutions act as independent bodies to investigate corruption cases, reducing the burden on the existing law enforcement agencies.
- They provide a platform for citizens to lodge complaints against corrupt officials and promote a culture of transparency and integrity in governance.

Overall, understanding the provisions, structure, functions, and significance of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas is crucial for candidates preparing for the UPSC exam.