Correct option is D
The correct answer is (d): Second Administrative Reforms Commission. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), which was constituted in 2005 under the chairmanship of Veerappa Moily, recommended the establishment of a Local Bodies’ Ombudsman to address complaints of corruption and maladministration against local bodies. The purpose of this recommendation was to ensure accountability and transparency at the grassroots level by providing a mechanism for investigating complaints against local government officials and elected representatives.
The Ombudsman for local bodies is envisioned as an independent authority that can investigate corruption charges and recommend corrective actions, thereby strengthening good governance at the local level.
Information Booster:
1. Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC): Established in 2005 to review the functioning of the administrative machinery in India and recommend reforms.
2. Local Bodies Ombudsman: The idea was to establish an independent body to handle corruption complaints related to local government institutions such as municipalities and Panchayats.
3. Good Governance: The ARC aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in local governance.
4. Decentralization: The ARC’s recommendations also emphasized the need for empowering local bodies through decentralization of powers and greater public participation.
5. Citizen-Centric Administration: The Second ARC advocated reforms that would make administration more responsive to citizens’ needs.
6. Corruption Control: The Ombudsman at the local level was seen as a means to check corruption and promote clean and efficient administration.