Thaindian News

New Delhi, Dec 22 (IANS) The Lokpal bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha Thursday, amid protests by political parties.

Here is a glance on where various parties and Team Anna stands on key issues.

Inclusion of Prime Minister

Government’s bill: Government’s bill includes prime minister under Lokpal with his actions in international affairs, external or internal security, public order, atomic energy and space exempt from Lopal’s purview. The full bench of the Lokpal consisting of the chairperson and all members will consider the initiation of inquiry against the PM and at least 3/4th of its members will approve initiation of inquiry. The inquiry should be held in camera.

Team Anna: Under Lokpal

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Favours inclusion of the prime minister under Lokpal.

Samajwadi Party (SP)/Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD): The two regional parties have opposed the prime minister’s inclusion under Lokpal. They feel that the inclusion will threaten stability in the country and may also affect India’s reputation internationally if the prime minister comes under probe.

Inclusion of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under Lokpal

Government’s bill: It does not include CBI under Lokpal and has instead given it a separate inquiry wing. It can also refer cases to CBI for further inquiry.

Team Anna: Under Lokpal

BJP: Has suggested splitting the anti-corruption wing of the CBI and bringing it under Lokpal.

SP/RJD: Opposed to the CBI being under Lokpal or splitting it.

Lower bureaucracy

Government’s bill: Lower bureaucracy has been brought under the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) with the superintendence of Lokpal.

Team Anna: Under Lokpal

BJP: Under Lokpal

SP/RJD: The two parties have not expressed any clear stand on the issue.

Minorities’ reservation in Lokpal

Government’s bill: Reservation for minorities in Lokpal was added in the government’s bill at the last minute after political parties demanded it.

Team Anna: The Team Anna’s draft has been silent on reservation, but this demand had come from other quarters of civil society and MPs.

BJP: Has protested reservation for minorities in Lokpal, stating that it is not in constitution to provide reservation based on religion.

SP/RJD: They are most vocal in raising the issue of reservation for minorities, supported by left parties. It was basically after their opposition that the government accommodated reservation for minorities in the Lokpal at the last moment.