Modi Government Cannot Keep Lokpal Act In Cold Storage, Supreme Court Says

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has criticized Narendra Modi government for keeping the Lokpal act in limbo for a long time.

The apex court has said that an important law like this can not be kept in cold storage. SC has also asked the government for its view on the selection panel comprising the Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha.

SC hinted that a situation has arisen where there is no leader of opposition but it also questioned the government whether any selection can be fair without the leader of opposition.

The Centre, on its part has said that it is undertaking substantial review of Lokpal act and rules to address many concerns but has not clarified whether it would allow the leader of the largest party in opposition to be part of the Lokpal selection panel.

The Supreme Court has given 4 weeks to the government to come back with its response on amending Lokpal Act to permit the participation of the leader of the largest party in opposition in the selection panel.