2013 · GS Paper 2 · Q17 · 10 marks
A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs. Discuss.
In short
A Lokpal can deter and punish visible corruption, but immorality such as nepotism, conflict of interest and criminalised politics lies beyond any ombudsman and needs codes, culture and electoral reform. ADR found 46% of the MPs elected in 2024 facing criminal cases.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 272 words
Deterrence at the top
It covers the Prime Minister with safeguards, ministers, MPs and Group A to D officials, so rank no longer shields graft and property gained through corruption can be attached.
Insulated machinery
A selection committee including the Chief Justice and Leader of the Opposition, at least half judicial members, and its own inquiry and prosecution wings guard against executive capture.
Legal, yet unethical
It acts only after an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act, while nepotism, patronage and conflict of interest are often lawful and leave no case to prove.
Politics outside its remit
Defection and criminalisation lie elsewhere; ADR found 46% of MPs elected in 2024 facing criminal cases.
Will over law
Functional only from 2019, it has prosecuted very few cases, showing that institutions depend on those who run them.
Values need building
The Second ARC (2007) urged codes of ethics, and Hong Kong's ICAC pairs investigation with public education.
This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.
Practise this question
1Get the answer sheet
Sized for this question.
2Write your answer
Timed, by hand.
3Get it marked
Your score and what to fix.
This chapter in the exam
Statutory Bodies6 questions
Asked in 5 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2023Who are entitled to receive free legal aid ? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
- 2023Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.
All 6 questions, sorted by sub-topic, with model answers and practice.
Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2013 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.