NEW DELHI, Apr 30: Government today said it is not possible to indicate a “definite” time-frame for the implementation of the Lokpal Act and Whistle Blowers Protection Act as some deficiencies have been noticed in them and amendments were being considered.
Replying to supplementaries in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said certain “deficiencies/ inconsistencies” were observed in the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act and an amendment bill has been referred to the standing committee for examination.
The deficiences or inconsistencies include absence of provision for situations where the composition of the Selection Committee was incomplete due to the absence of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
An Amendment Bill, the Minister said has been referred to the parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice for examination and report.
On the Whistle Blowers Protection Act which was notified in May 2014, he said it has not been brought into force as it required crucial amendments relating to national security. Necessary amendments are being finalised, he added.
“In view of the above, it can be seen that it would not be possible to indicate any definite time-frame for implementation of the aforesaid Acts,” Singh said.
On appointment of Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), Singh said the process is going on, but there is a court intervention in the matter. The next date of hearing is on May 12, he said.
When asked about the delay in appointment of Chief Information Commissioner (CIC), the Minister said the entire selection process has to be restarted after a court order to advertise for the post. (PTI)
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