Criticizing the Nagaland Government’s amendment of Lokayukta which has hampered the effectiveness of the institution, the Rising Peoples Party (RPP) has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) .
“The Lokayukta is the sole anti-corruption authority in the state, tasked with investigating and addressing complaints of corruption and misconduct against public servants, including government officials and elected representatives. However, Nagaland faces a unique challenge. Over the years, the state’s Lokayukta has been plagued by issues that have effectively paralyzed its functioning,” stated the RPP in a press release today.
Marred by several complications, the Party claimed, the amendments made by the Nagaland State Government are in contravention with Principal Act of 2013. “It has defeated the purpose of the Lok Ayukta. Unless, the admendments are done away with, the Lok Ayukta cannot perform the intended purpose of fighting corruption,” it stated.
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In response, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by Lhikhro Kreo representing the Rising People’s Party (RPP). “The Honourable Court has granted an interim stay on the implementation of these amendments for four weeks, pending further hearings. We extend our thanks to Advocate S. Borgohain and the legal team for their diligent efforts. The court’s timely intervention ensures the protection of public interest and the preservation of an independent and effective Lokayukta in Nagaland,” stated the RPP.
It also expressed hope that the proceedings will restore the institution’s ability to combat corruption effectively.