Karnataka Lokayukta removal: Opposition wants discussion, government doesn’t

Belagavi: The issue of removing Lokayukta Justice Bhaskar Rao from his post dominated proceedings in the Legislative Council on Monday. Council Chairman D.H. Shankaramurthy came under fire from the ruling Congress which wanted to know the provisions under which the opposition had been allowed to make a preliminary submission.

Mr Shankaramurthy defended himself saying he had special powers to allow them to make a brief submission on the issue. “In the history of the Legislative Council, for the first time we have received a notice for the removal of the Lokayukta, before proceeding with such a notice, the chair should know the importance of the issue", he remarked.

BJP member G. Madhusudhan stated that it is the responsibility of both Houses to discuss the removal of the Lokayukta for alleged corruption. According to media reports and a preliminary inquiry initiated by the Lokayukta police, the son of Lokayukta Justice Bhaskar Rao is involved in corruption and had extorted money from bureaucrats warning them of raids. Incidents in the Lokayukta office since one month have disturbed civil society.

"It’s unfortunate that we are helpless when the Lokayukta is indulging in corruption when we have the power to appoint the Lokayukta", Mr. Madhusudhan said.

Floor leader S.R. Patil said the motion cannot be allowed based on inferences as mentioned by the opposition in the notice. Since there is no evidence against the Lokayukta, as per the provisions of the Judges (Enquiry) Act 1968, the notice cannot be allowed for discussion, he argued.

After hearing both sides, Mr Shankaramurthy said he would hold discussions with the Advocate General and announce his decision.