Maharashtra set to implement new Lokayukta Act after Centre-directed amendments

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic

Nearly two years after it was first passed, Maharashtra is finally poised to implement its new Lokayukta Act, following the State Legislature's approval of key amendments recommended by the Central Government. The development marks a significant step toward bolstering transparency and accountability in public administration and comes amid persistent demands from veteran social activist Anna Hazare, who had warned of launching an indefinite fast from January 31, 2026, if the law was not operationalised, reported news agency ANI.

The original Lokayukta Bill was approved by the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on December 28, 2022, and later cleared by the Legislative Council on December 15, 2023. The Bill was subsequently forwarded to President Droupadi Murmu for assent. While the President granted approval, she advised the State to incorporate three specific amendments to ensure better legal clarity and alignment with Central legislation. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Legislature that these recommendations have now been duly accepted and integrated, reported ANI.

Explaining the amendments, Fadnavis said authorities created exclusively under Central laws will not automatically come under the jurisdiction of the State Lokayukta. However, if officers serving in such bodies are appointed by the State Government, they will fall within the Lokayukta's ambit. Similarly, even in institutions established by the Centre, any official appointed by Maharashtra will be accountable under the new Lokayukta framework. This clarification aims to avoid administrative overlaps while ensuring that State-appointed officials across various bodies remain answerable, reported ANI.

Another key change involves updating references in the legislation to reflect India's new criminal law framework. Mentions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and Evidence Act have been replaced with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, respectively - the updated codes recently enacted by the Centre.

The amended law also outlines the transition process once the new Act comes into force. The tenure of the incumbent Lokayukta, appointed under the previous legislation, will automatically cease. To ensure continuity and avoid any governance vacuum, the existing Lokayukta will remain in office until the newly appointed Lokayukta formally takes charge.

With both Houses of the State Legislature clearing the amended Bill and presidential assent already in place, the Maharashtra Government is expected to notify and implement the new Lokayukta Act soon, strengthening the State's anti-corruption architecture.

(With inputs from ANI)