The Maharashtra Legislative Council has approved the Lokayukta Bill 2022 which brings the Chief Minister and council of ministers under the ambit of the anti-corruption Ombudsman. The Bill, which had initially been cleared by the State Assembly during the previous Winter Session, faced scrutiny in the Council which led 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 garnered unanimous support during the Friday session which marked a crucial step in enhancing transparency and accountability in the State’s governance.

 

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, addressing the Legislative House, highlighted the collaborative effort involved in drafting the bill. He cited numerous joint meetings between a team led by social activist Anna Hazare and government officials. He stressed that the Lokayukta Bill integrates provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act and it would serve as a deterrent against corruption as it encompasses the Chief Minister and council of ministers under the ombudsman’s jurisdiction. Fadnavis said, “The appointment of the Lokayukta would be transperent 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 noted the incorporation of provisions from the Centre’s Lokayukta Act into the state bill.

 

Explaining the operational aspects, Fadnavis clarified that if the Lokayukta receives a complaint against the Chief Minister and finds evidence therein, 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 immediate provision of necessary infrastructure for the Lokayukta. Ahir stressed the ombudsman’s role in setting an example akin to Nyay Mandir.