Lokayukta Bill 2022 Approved by Maharashtra Legislative Council
The Lokayukta Bill 2022, extending the jurisdiction of the anti-corruption Ombudsman to include the Chief Minister and council of ministers, has received approval from the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Initially cleared by the State Assembly during the previous Winter Session, the bill underwent scrutiny in the Council, leading to its referral to a joint committee. Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar reintroduced the Bill in the Upper House after incorporating recommendations from the joint committee. The revised Bill gained unanimous support during the Friday session, marking a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accountability in the State's governance.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, addressing the Legislative House, emphasized the collaborative effort in drafting the bill. He mentioned multiple joint meetings between a team led by social activist Anna Hazare and government officials. Fadnavis highlighted that the Lokayukta Bill integrates provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act, serving as a deterrent against corruption by encompassing the Chief Minister and council of ministers under the Ombudsman's jurisdiction. Fadnavis stated, "The appointment of the Lokayukta would be transparent as the search committee would comprise the Chief Minister, two Deputy Chief Ministers, both Leaders of Opposition, Speakers of both Houses and the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court." He also noted the incorporation of provisions from the Centre's Lokayukta Act into the state bill.
Regarding operational aspects, Fadnavis clarified that if the Lokayukta receives a complaint against the Chief Minister and finds evidence, a preliminary inquiry can be initiated. The Lokayukta would then seek the Speaker of the Assembly's permission to prosecute the Chief Minister. Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap stressed the importance of maintaining integrity in the bill, while Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Sachin Ahir urged the immediate provision of necessary infrastructure for the Lokayukta, emphasizing the Ombudsman's role in setting an example akin to Nyay Mandir.
