Upa Lokayukta Justice Veerappa Calls for Integrity to Combat Corruption in Udupi
Upa Lokayukta Justice B Veerappa has declared that the institution is steadfastly committed to eradicating corruption, which he identified as one of the most significant threats to democracy. He urged officials to serve with unwavering integrity and a strong sense of duty during a crucial meeting in Udupi.
Addressing Delays in Justice and Public Service
Justice Veerappa made these remarks after inaugurating a session focused on the hearing and disposal of pending Lokayukta cases. The event was held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hall in Rajatadri, Manipal, on Thursday. He expressed concern that despite 79 years of Independence, persistent delays continue to plague the justice delivery system, including cases handled by the Lokayukta.
"Freedom was achieved through immense sacrifice, and citizens must exercise their legal rights and seek justice without fear," Justice Veerappa emphasized. He directed officials to ensure that public services are provided within stipulated timeframes and to prevent citizens from having to make repeated visits to government offices.
Collaborative Efforts and Electoral Caution
The Upa Lokayukta stressed that both officials and the public must work together to curb corrupt practices. He also issued a caution to voters, advising them against accepting inducements during elections, which can undermine democratic processes.
Highlighting Udupi district's notable progress in education, Justice Veerappa called for honest service from officials. "Only then can public service be meaningful. The term corruption must disappear from public life," he asserted.
Review of Pending Cases and Legal Warnings
Justice Veerappa explained that he is visiting districts across the state to review and dispose of Lokayukta cases. In Udupi district, approximately 150 pending cases were taken up for examination. He issued a stern warning that filing false complaints could result in severe penalties, including up to three years of imprisonment and substantial fines.
Principal District and Sessions Judge Kiran Gangannavar, who presided over the meeting, encouraged officials to adopt innovative approaches and proactively address any shortcomings. He noted that the meeting provided a valuable opportunity for officials to review complaints and enhance their operational efficiency.
Udupi's Achievements and Case Resolutions
Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK reported that Udupi district ranks first in disposing of public applications within the stipulated time and second in education, showcasing its administrative effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Lokayukta Deputy Registrar (Inquiry-1) Aravind NV, ZP CEO Prateek Bayal, SP Hariram Shankar, Mangaluru Division Lokayukta SP BP Dinesh Kumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests Ruthren P from the Kudremukh Wildlife Division, and other district- and taluk-level officers.
During the session, cases related to the lack of basic facilities in student hostels, welfare homes, residential schools, and government institutions were reviewed and resolved based on Lokayukta reports. However, complaints of alleged corruption against RTO and sub-registrar officials were deferred due to the absence of the complainants.
Directives for Land Allotments
Justice Veerappa also issued directives to authorities, instructing them to ensure that land allotments due to ex-servicemen, dependants of martyrs, and freedom fighters are provided without delay, in strict accordance with established rules and regulations.
