The Odisha government will amend the state's Lokayukta legislation before appointing a new chairperson and members. This decision comes as the anti-corruption watchdog remains vacant for more than a year. Officials confirmed the amendments will focus on the selection committee's composition and procedures.
Focus on Selection Committee Changes
According to the existing Odisha Lokayukta Act from 2014, the Governor appoints the chairperson and members based on recommendations from a five-member selection committee. This committee includes the Chief Minister as chairperson, the Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition, a judge from the Orissa High Court, and one eminent jurist.
The current law also mandates that this selection committee forms a search committee. This search committee must have at least five individuals with expertise in public administration, finance, law, and anti-corruption policy.
Legal Proceedings Prompt Action
Public Interest Litigations (PILs) regarding the delay in filling these vacancies are currently pending in the Orissa High Court. The chairperson retired on March 19, 2024, and members completed their terms by August 8, 2024.
On Tuesday, the state's Advocate General, Pitamber Acharya, informed the court about discrepancies and anomalies in the 2014 law. These issues specifically relate to the Lokayukta's selection committee. The High Court has granted the state government six weeks to appoint the chairperson and members.
Historical Context of Odisha's Lokayukta
Odisha made history in February 2014 by becoming the first Indian state to enact a law establishing a Lokayukta. This body investigates corruption charges against public officials, including the Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, and heads of local bodies.
The previous BJD government took five years to appoint Justice Ajit Singh, former Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, as the Lokayukta chairperson. After Singh and other members completed their five-year tenures, the Lokayukta became defunct. This vacancy has significantly impacted the handling of corruption-related complaints across the state.
The BJP-led state government now moves to amend the law to address these procedural gaps. The amendments aim to streamline the appointment process and ensure the anti-corruption body functions effectively without further delays.
