Janlokpal to have powers to provide security to whistleblowers

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Janlokpal will have powers to provide full protection to whistleblowers from any threat of physical harm or or administrative harassment.

According to the Janlokpal Bill tabled in the Assembly, ombudsman can issue order to government or any other authority to provide security and protection to whistleblowers.

Government said that under this bill, the identity of whistleblowers will be kept strictly confidential.

"It will be competent for the Janlokpal to give suitable directions to the government or any other public authority for providing security to such whistleblower and to ensure that no harassment is caused to such whistleblower," said a senior government official.

The official said if Janlokpal is satisfied upon inquiry or investigation, that the complaint of the whistleblower is genuine, in addition to criminal action as may be taken under this Act against such person involved either in the act of corruption or in the harassment of whistleblowers, it would also be open to the Janlokpal to recommend disciplinary action against such person.