The draft bill, framed by five ministers, who were on the joint drafting committee with the Anna Hazare-led group of representatives, does not contain the references to the prime minister, higher judiciary and actions of MPs in Parliament as demanded by the activists.
Having convened an all-party meeting that discussed the bill, the government is looking to introduce it early in the monsoon session, beginning next week, well ahead of the threatened fast by Hazare, who is insisting that the prime minister, higher judiciary and MPs be brought under the ambit of the proposed Lokpal.
Sources said the bill is expected to be taken up by the Cabinet and some of the contentious issues could come up for discussion. On July 22, HRD minister Kapil Sibal had announced that the bill would be ready for the Cabinet at its next meeting. There are differences between activists and government and even among political parties about the structure and selection process of the Lokpal.
The bill once introduced in Parliament is almost certain to be referred to a standing committee, where it is likely to be subjected to intense discussion. The debate in the panel is expected to further shape the bill as Opposition parties, also some regional outfits, favour inclusion of PMO with safeguards. Conditions include keeping national security and foreign policy outside the purview of the Lokpal.
Although Hazare is not likely to be deflected from his fast, the government is firm about keeping the bill outside the domain of activists and within the political process and is banking on this view being shared across party lines.