Lokayukta amendment based on Advocate General's advice, no need to consult with Opposition leader, says Kodiyeri

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has given an explanation regarding Lokayukta law amendment. Lokayukta came into being when Left government was in power. He said that the Lokayukta laws in various states and the Lokpal Bill was introduced after this. The Cabinet decision for amendments was based on Advocate General's legal advice . The legal advice was received on April 13, 2021. The then Advocate General CP Sudhakara Prasad has given the instructions regarding this. He said that after examination the government understood the relevance of the proposal.

In some states, the Lokayukta cannot expel persons holding constitutional position. The same law exists in Congress ruled Punjab. Under Section 14 of the Lokayukta, the authorities are compelled to remove a person from office for violating the rules. The problem is that there is no appeal power over it. The Advocate General pointed out that the provision of a non-appellate section was contrary to Article 164 of the Constitution.It is up to the governor to decide whether to continue with current government. Kodiyeri said the government need not consult the Leader of the Opposition to bring the ordinance.