Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna emphasized that an anti-corruption mediator, like the Lokpal, must work closely with agencies such as the Central Vigilance Commission. This coordination is essential to effectively address corruption and safeguard public systems. He stressed that collaboration strengthens accountability and enhances trust in institutions. Public faith, he noted, is crucial for the success of such efforts.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna stated on Thursday that the mere establishment of Lokpal does not eradicate corruption and emphasized that the anti-corruption mediator must work in close coordination with agencies such as the Central Vigilance Commission.
At an event honoring Lokpal Day, he remarked that Lokpal is crucial to the constitutional framework as it serves as an antidote to corruption.
He stated,
“Mere establishment of Lokpal does not solve the problem of corruption. For Lokpal to reach its full potential, it must coordinate seamlessly with bodies like the Central Vigilance Commission and other agencies. Smooth collaboration is essential for guiding investigations. The success of Lokpal will depend on public trust and an engaged citizenry committed to rooting out corruption.”
The Chief Justice noted that the scope of corruption extends beyond high-profile scandals, often manifesting in the daily lives of the socially and economically disadvantaged.
He added,
“The institutions we have created in the form of Lokpal are extremely important, but like the Constitution, they require capable individuals to operate them,”
On the same occasion, Lokpal chairperson and former Supreme Court judge Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar announced that efforts are underway to incorporate cutting-edge technology and systems to improve process efficiency and effectiveness.
Khanwilkar stated,
“We are also open to exploring the feasibility of artificial intelligence applications. These tools will enable more efficient data management and analysis, speeding up our inquiries into allegations of misconduct and enhancing our ability to tackle emerging challenges,”
He further mentioned that the anti-corruption body is prioritizing the recruitment of personnel with specialized expertise, including in forensic and cyber investigations, to address the increasingly sophisticated nature of corruption.
He added,
“We are also promoting greater collaboration with anti-corruption bureaus like the CBI, CVC, and the judiciary to create a cohesive and unified front against corruption,”
Attorney General R. Venkatramani also spoke at the event, sharing his experiences in combating corruption and expressing gratitude to Justice Khanwilkar for inviting and honoring him.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna stated corruption fosters inequality, severely impacting the poor, women, and disadvantaged groups. He noted,
“Empirical studies show that the poor pay the highest percentage of their income in bribes. They are often targeted because they lack the power to complain, in contrast to their wealthier counterparts. Similarly, other marginalized groups suffer greatly from corruption.”
Speaking at a Lokpal Day event, Justice Khanna highlighted,
“World Bank reports indicate that women, in particular, bear a disproportionate burden as they heavily rely on public services, which are plagued by corruption.”
He added that marginalized groups, such as those from disadvantaged castes, are also significantly affected, as they depend more on public services than those who are privileged.
He asserted,
“The vice-like grip of corruption increases inequality, and inequality breeds further corruption,”
Social activist Anna Hazare, who started the movement for the creation of Lokpal, attended the event virtually from his village in Maharashtra. He described corruption as a “hydra-headed monster” that has long plagued Indian society and presents a substantial barrier to democratic ideals.
The Chief Justice emphasized the crucial role of Lokpal in the constitutional framework, stating,
“The Lokpal is paramount because it serves as an antidote to the poison of corruption, a menace that has afflicted democracies worldwide.”
He asserted that,
“The success of Lokpal will depend on public trust, which is achieved through performance, objectivity, independence, and fairness,”
Justice Khanna remarked,
“Our fight against corruption must aim to strengthen democracy and public trust, not undermine it. Anti-corruption efforts should be viewed as a means to promote democracy, rather than an end in themselves.”
He highlighted the significance of the doctrine of public trust, saying,
“Citizens trust the government to fulfill their aspirations to live with dignity, to freely express themselves, and to overcome socio-economic challenges. This trust the belief that governments will act fairly and in the public’s interest is the invisible force that sustains our democracy. Without this trust, no system, however intricately designed, can function effectively. Public trust is, therefore, sine qua non (an essential condition) for any constitutional democracy.”
However, he cautioned that when moral failings such as corruption and bribery infiltrate governance, public trust begins to erode. He warned,
“Distrust grows among citizens, and this distrust is perilous,”
“History has repeatedly shown that distrust can lead to political and economic instability, create deep societal divisions, and sometimes even incite violence.”
Justice Khanna also acknowledged the role of the RTI Act of 2005 and the Prevention of Corruption Act of 1988 in promoting transparency and combating corruption.
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES
