Question

The word 'Ombudsman' is derived from

• A. French administration
• B. British Administration
• C. Swedish Administration
• D. German Administration

Hint:

Associate "Ombudsman" with its origin: Sweden, 1809. This was the first country to establish such an independent institution to check administrative excesses. In the Indian context, link it to the Lokpal and Lokayukta.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the origin of the term and concept of 'Ombudsman'. An ombudsman is an official appointed to investigate individuals' complaints against maladministration, especially that of public authorities.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The institution of the Ombudsman originated in Sweden. The Swedish Parliament appointed a 'Justitieombudsman' (Ombudsman for Justice) in 1809.
The word 'Ombudsman' is of Swedish origin and literally means "representative" or "agent." This official was appointed to act as a representative of the people to supervise the functioning of the public administration and protect citizens from administrative injustice.
The concept was later adopted by many other countries around the world. In India, the equivalent institutions are the Lokpal (at the central level) and the Lokayukta (at the state level).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The word and institution of 'Ombudsman' are derived from Swedish administration.