No compromise on Lokpal selection panel

By sagarmedia on November 19, 2014 | Edit

Aam Aadmi Party opposes the BJP central government’s proposal to scrap the requirement of a quorum (mandatory presence of minimum members) in the selection panels for selecting the Lokpal and CBI director.

AAP appeals to all the opposition parties also to oppose any amendment in the existing laws which seek to render them toothless and would lead to government control in these important appointments.

The Lokpal became a reality following a two year long countrywide struggle in which people from all sections of the society took to roads to protest corruption in high places and the AAP will not allow the government to scuttle a fair method of appointment for the anti-graft ombudsman.

The party is of the clear view that a quorum (requirement of presence of a minimum number of members) must be mandatory for any meeting of the selection panel to appoint the Lokpal, CBI Chief and such other important positions.

Central government’s decision to amend the existing laws to insulate the decisions of the two respective selection panels from being challenged in a court of law and being held as invalid due to lack of quorum – is a clear compromise with the independent, free and fair appointment process.

There should be at least 3/4^th quorum (minimum number of members required to be present) in the selection panel for the appointment  of the Lokpal chairperson and its member and the CBI Chief.

The struggle of the people for having a Lokpal in the country cannot be allowed to be compromised for the government’s convenience.

The conduct of the current CBI chief proves beyond doubt that an individual of integrity and whose credentials are above board should only be appointed to head the country’s premier investigating agency. This will only be possible if the selection panel is fair and impartial and not loaded in government’s favour.(Please find attached the Hindi press release)

Regards.

AAP Media Cell