Lokpal’s New Motto: A Step Forward in India’s Fight Against Corruption
In a significant move towards reinforcing transparency and public accountability, the Full Bench of the Lokpal of India has officially adopted a new motto: “Empower Citizens, Expose Corruption.” This fresh slogan replaces the earlier one and aligns with Lokpal’s ongoing mission to fight corruption at the highest levels of public administration.
The Lokpal’s updated logo, now featuring the new motto, was unveiled on June 11, 2025, by its Full Bench. This change is more than symbolic; it represents a renewed commitment to public empowerment and administrative transparency.
The motto underscores two key aspects:
1. Empowerment of Citizens – enabling individuals to actively participate in the democratic process by holding public officials accountable.
2. Exposure of Corruption – reaffirming the Lokpal’s core purpose as a watchdog against corrupt practices among public functionaries.
Why the New Motto Matters
The adoption of the new motto is not just a branding exercise—it reflects a shift in approach.
Public Inclusion: The phrase “Empower Citizens” emphasizes that tackling corruption is not the responsibility of institutions alone. It requires active participation from the public, supported by robust grievance redressal systems and awareness campaigns.
Accountability Focus: “Expose Corruption” reflects Lokpal’s proactive stance in identifying and investigating corruption cases, aiming for swift justice and deterrence.
Lokpal’s Role and Achievements So Far
The Lokpal of India, established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, serves as an apex body to investigate complaints against public servants. Since its inception, the Lokpal has:
Handled several high-profile complaints involving senior officials.
Collaborated with enforcement agencies to strengthen investigations.
Promoted ethical conduct through outreach and education.
However, critics often highlight the slow pace of inquiries and limited autonomy. The new motto attempts to rebuild public trust by placing the citizen at the center of its framework.
Public Reaction and Significance
Social media and civil society voices have largely welcomed the motto change. Transparency International India called it a “positive message for democratic empowerment.” Legal experts have also noted that symbolism, when backed with action, can improve public perception and engagement.
Civic tech platforms and whistleblower initiatives may now align more closely with the Lokpal’s message, boosting collaboration.
What Lies Ahead
With this rebranding, Lokpal is expected to:
Enhance public outreach through digital platforms.
Promote awareness about citizen rights and complaint mechanisms.
Accelerate case disposal rates and transparency in ongoing investigations.
Citizens are encouraged to use the Lokpal’s online complaint portal and attend public awareness sessions. Greater accessibility and transparency can make the motto a reality.
Conclusion
The Lokpal’s new motto is more than a statement—it’s a call to action. It invites every Indian to become a partner in the fight against corruption. As the institution evolves, this renewed identity signals a stronger push for citizen-centric governance, greater transparency, and accountability in public service.