Noted rights activist Pradeep Pradhan has alleged that the lokayukta Bill tabled in the State Assembly on Tuesday would serve little purpose as it can’t conduct a free and fair investigation against the political leaders and the Government employees involved in corruption practices.
Pointing out that according to the Section 4 of the Bill, the Chairperson and members of the lokayukta would be selected by a five-member team comprising the Chief Minister, the Assembly Speaker, leader of the Opposition, the Chief Justice of High Court and a legal expert to be nominated by the Governor, Pradhan said, “The Governor’s representative will virtually work as the behest of the ruling party. Hence, only Government supported persons will be appointed as the Chairperson and members. The lokayukta formed in such a manner is not expected to conduct free and fair investigation against the leader and Government employees who are with the Government.”
He suggested that the first four members of the State Selection Committee choose the fifth member as is done in Central model. The fifth member so selected will be termed as one nominated by the Governor.