Background: The Supreme Court of India recently heard a petition seeking the appointment of the Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman. The petitioners argued that the Centre had failed to appoint the Lokpal despite the passage of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. Parties: The petitioners were a group of individuals and organizations, including the Common Cause, while the respondents were the Union of India and the Department of Personnel and Training. Legal issues: The main issue before the court was whether the Centre had failed to appoint the Lokpal and whether the appointment should be made forthwith. Court observations: The Supreme Court observed that the appointment of the Lokpal is a critical issue and that the Centre must file an affidavit indicating the steps taken to appoint the Lokpal. The court directed the Centre to file an affidavit within a specified timeframe. Significance: The judgment is significant as it highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the appointment of the Lokpal. The judgment will have implications for the government's ability to appoint the Lokpal and will pave the way for the establishment of an effective anti-corruption mechanism.