Odisha to Get New Lokayukta Soon, Appointment Process Underway: Suresh Pujari

Odisha is set to get a new Lokayukta, with the state government already initiating the process to fill the post, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said on Tuesday.

Pujari said the first meeting concerning the appointment has already taken place, while financial procedures associated with the post have also been initiated. He indicated that the government expects the process to reach completion shortly.

The selection of the Lokayukta involves a constitutional procedure in which the Chief Minister, Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly and Leader of the Opposition take part. Pujari said the decision is determined by majority.

The minister’s remarks came amid criticism from the Opposition over the delay in appointing a new Lokayukta. Rejecting the charge, Pujari said the two-year period since the present government came to power should not be viewed as excessive when compared with the 24 years for which the previous government remained in office.

Pujari expressed confidence that Odisha would have a new Lokayukta soon as the appointment process moves forward.