Centre keen to go ahead with Lokpal

New Delhi: Though the Union government have failed to bring in Ordinances on anti-corruption laws, it is keen to send out a strong signal on its intent to curb corruption and is going ahead with shortlisting candidates for the Lokpal and members of its panels.

The Centre feels since the Lokpal Bill has been passed by the Parliament and the Lokpal, as an autonomous body, will function outside the government’s purview, it is not covered by the model code of conduct that comes into effect once the Lok Sabha polls are announced by the Election Commission.

But there is also a view that this could be a grey area, and the Opposition may raise objections. There have been instances in the past, though, when caretaker governments have made key appointments.