Which of the following statements about the Ethics Committee in the Lok Sabha are correct?

1. Initially it was an ad-hoc Committee.
2. Only a Member of the Lok Sabha can make a complaint relating to unethical conduct of a member of the Lok Sabha.
3. This Committee cannot take up any matter which is sub-judice.

Select the answer using the code given below:

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha: The Committee of Privileges recommended the constitution of an Ethics Committee during the 13^th Lok Sabha. In 2000, an ad hoc Ethics Committee was constituted. It became a permanent part of the LS in 2015.
• Ethics Committee of Rajya Sabha: In 1997, then Vice President (and RS Chairman) K R Narayanan constituted the Ethics Committee of the RS to oversee members’ moral and ethical conduct and examine cases of misconduct referred to it. The Rules applicable to the Committee of Privileges also applied to the ethics panel.

Statement 2 is incorrect, and statement 3 is correct

• Procedure for complaints: Any person can complain against a Member through another LS MP, with evidence of the alleged misconduct and an affidavit stating that the complaint is not “false, frivolous, or vexatious”.
  • If the Member himself complains, the affidavit is not needed.
  • The Speaker can refer a complaint against an MP to the Committee.
  • The Committee does not entertain complaints based only on media reports or sub judice matters.
  • The Committee makes a prima facie inquiry before examining a complaint.
  • It makes its recommendations after evaluating the complaint.
  • The Committee presents its report to the Speaker.
  • LS Speaker asks the House if the report should be considered.
  • There is also a provision for a half-hour discussion on the report.

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Medium