Maharashtra Lokayukta


The Maharashtra Lokayukta is the body overseeing corruption in various agencies in the Govt. of Maharashtra in India. Established in 1971, it is the first ever Lokayukta of all States of India. It was established through The Maharashtra Lokayukta and Upa-Lokayuktas Act, 1971.Odisha is the first state to make an act in 1970 but implement in 1983.
No specific qualifications are prescribed in the States of Maharashtra,Bihar,Rajsthan.
It is considered to be one of the weakest Lokayukta in India due to lack of powers, inadequate staff, inadequate funds and no independent investigating agency.
okayukta. The Governor appoints the Lokayukta after due consultations with Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court and Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Upa-Lokayukta is appointed after consultation with the Lokayukta. Once appointed, Lokayuka or Upa-Lokayukta can remain in office for a term of five years.

Oath or affirmation

Removal

Lokayuka or Upa-Lokayukta can be removed from his office through the process of impeachment. The removal can only be on the grounds of misbehavior or incapacity and no other grounds. The procedure for removal is as per Article 311 of Constitution of India.

Powers

Any citizen can make his/her complaints of corruption directly to the Lokayukta against any government official or elected representative. Lokayukta’s power varies from State to State. In some States, the Lokayukta inquires into allegations against public functionaries including Chief Minister, Ministers and MLAs. While some has the power to investigate into civil servants/bureaucrats, judiciary and police.