Lokpal Powers Under Act 2013, Chapter VII

The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, defines the jurisdiction and powers of the Lokpal. Chapter VII specifically addresses the 'Powers and Procedures' available to the Lokpal during inquiries and investigations.

Analyzing Lokpal's Vestited Powers

The question asks to identify the power that is explicitly not granted to the Lokpal under Chapter VII of the Act.

• Powers of search and seizure: The Lokpal is empowered to conduct searches and seize documents or assets relevant to an inquiry (Refer to Section 20 of the Act). This power is vested.
• Powers of attachment of assets: The Lokpal has the authority to order the attachment of properties and assets related to a corruption complaint to prevent their disposal during investigation (Refer to Section 21 of the Act). This power is vested.
• Powers to utilise services of officers of Central or State Government: The Lokpal can request and utilise the assistance of officers from central or state government agencies for conducting inquiries (Refer to Section 11 of the Act). This power is vested.

Excluded Authority Under Chapter VII

The Lokpal, while having significant investigative and recommendatory powers, does not possess the full judicial authority of a criminal court. The Act does not grant the Lokpal the power to function directly as a criminal court, adjudicate criminal trials, or impose punishments in the same manner as a criminal court does.

Therefore, the specific power mentioned, 'Powers of criminal court in certain cases', is not vested with the Lokpal under Chapter VII of the Act, 2013.