Lokpal of India Marks Foundation Day on January 16

The Foundation Day of the Lokpal of India was observed on January 16, commemorating the coming into force of Section 3 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, on January 16, 2014. The event marked the institutional establishment of India’s apex anti-corruption body and reflected on its evolving role in strengthening transparency and accountability in public life.

Commemoration at Lokpal Office, New Delhi

The Foundation Day function was held at the Lokpal of India office in New Delhi in the presence of Justice A. M. Khanwilkar, Chairperson of Lokpal of India, along with Members of the institution. Unlike the previous year’s larger public celebration at the Maneckshaw Centre, the 2026 observance was conducted in-house in a modest manner, in line with fiscal austerity measures due to budgetary constraints.

Reflections on Democratic Accountability

Welcoming the Chairperson, Justice Lingappa Narayana Swami highlighted the Lokpal’s role as a pillar of ethical governance. He emphasised that Lokpal Day is an occasion to reflect on institutional progress, reaffirm commitments to vigilance and fairness, and strengthen public trust. He described the Lokpal as central to India’s democratic journey, tasked with ensuring integrity in public administration.

Chairperson’s Address and Institutional Growth

In his address, Justice A. M. Khanwilkar recalled the public movements and sacrifices that culminated in the establishment of the Lokpal, notably acknowledging the contribution of Anna Hazare and former Supreme Court judge Justice N. Santosh Hegde. He noted that the Lokpal represents a body “by the people, of the people, and for the people”. Highlighting institutional performance, he pointed to a steady rise in complaints over the past two years, projecting a sharp increase in 2025–26, reflecting growing citizen awareness and confidence in the institution.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Lokpal of India was established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• January 16 is observed as Lokpal Foundation Day.
• Lokpal has jurisdiction over corruption complaints against public functionaries.
• Increasing complaints indicate higher citizen engagement and awareness.

Digital Infrastructure and Felicitations

During the event, a newly built IT infrastructure and Data Centre of the Lokpal was inaugurated to enable end-to-end digital and paperless processing of complaints. The ceremony also included felicitation of winners from competitions held on International Anti-Corruption Day 2025, recognition of long-serving staff members, and honouring children of Lokpal employees for achievements in academics, sports, and cultural activities.