Lokpal panel to meet for last time tomorrow

As the joint drafting committee on Lokpal Bill winds up discussions tomorrow, "serious differences" today persisted between the government and civil society and fresh discord broke out over appointment and removal of the anti-corruption ombudsman.

Both the sides will exchange their drafts version of the bill which will be merged into one document with differences listed for a final decision to be taken by the Union Cabinet, spokespersons for both the camps said.

While HRD Minister Kapil Sibal, one of the official representatives on the committee, claimed that there was 80 to 85% agreement between the two sides and that there was a "major breakthrough" and forward movement, the civil society side made light of the government claim.

Sibal acknowledged that there was "strong divergence" of opinions but both the camps said the discussions were held in a "very cordial atmosphere".

The differences between the two sides remain on inclusion of Prime Minister within the ambit of the Bill as also the higher judiciary and conduct of MPs inside the House, funding model, CBI under Lokpal and Lokayuktas in state.

At today''s meeting, an addition was made to this list when the two sides disagreed over who will constitute the panel to select Lokpal and who can approach the Supreme Court for removal. .