SC Pauses Lokpal Order: Judge Probe Halted

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Supreme Court halts Lokpal order on power to probe High Court judges.
• Lokpal passed the order while hearing complaints against a High Court judge.
• Supreme Court calls Lokpal’s order “very disturbing.”
• Notice issued to the Centre and the Registrar of Lokpal.
• Complainant directed not to disclose the High Court judge’s name.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Supreme Court on Thursday paused an order of the Lokpal that asserted its power to probe High Court judges under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. This intervention raises important questions about the jurisdiction of the Lokpal and the independence of the judiciary.

Calling the Lokpal order “very disturbing,” the Supreme Court issued a notice to the Centre and the Registrar of Lokpal. The apex court’s strong reaction indicates the sensitivity and potential implications of the Lokpal’s directive.

The Supreme Court had taken up the matter suo moto following the order passed by the Lokpal on January 27. The Lokpal’s order came while it was hearing two complaints filed against a sitting additional judge of a High Court. The timing and circumstances surrounding the Lokpal’s decision prompted the Supreme Court to intervene.

However, the top court directed the complainant not to disclose the name of the High Court judge. This directive aims to protect the judge’s privacy and prevent any potential prejudice while the matter is under review.

The Lokpal’s order stemmed from two complaints filed against a High Court judge. The specifics of these complaints remain confidential, but they triggered the Lokpal’s assertion of its power to investigate High Court judges. The core issue revolves around whether the Lokpal has the legal authority to probe sitting judges.

The Supreme Court’s decision to take up the matter suo moto underscores its concern about the potential ramifications of the Lokpal’s order. The court likely wants to ensure that the Lokpal’s actions do not infringe upon the independence of the judiciary, a cornerstone of India’s democratic system.

The issuance of notices to the Centre and the Registrar of Lokpal signals the court’s intention to thoroughly examine the legal and constitutional aspects of the case. The Centre’s response will be crucial in determining the government’s stance on the Lokpal’s powers.

The Supreme Court’s decision in this case will have significant implications for the relationship between the Lokpal, an anti-corruption ombudsman, and the judiciary. It will clarify the boundaries of the Lokpal’s jurisdiction and ensure that the judiciary’s independence is protected.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Supreme Court stays Lokpal’s order to investigate High Court judges.
• The order was issued following complaints against a High Court judge.
• Supreme Court deems Lokpal’s order as “very disturbing.”
• The Centre and Registrar of Lokpal have been issued notices.
• Complainant has been instructed not to reveal the judge’s identity.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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