The political establishment has systematically sidelined the office of Lokayukta. It has delayed the naming of a new Lokayukta citing the non-availability of a “suitable” judge. Non-availability is one thing, but first of there is no proper infrastructure to house the office of the Lokayukta. The functioning of the Lokayukta is made ineffective on account of limited powers and resources. The Lokayuktas are not empowered enough and state governments try to weaken them. Corruption in India is a major issue that adversely affects its economy. No party will like to strengthen Lokayukta in states. Political parties use the name of the Lokayukta to gain votes, but fail to respect the office. In India, the Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) of 1966 headed by Morarji Desai first recommended the establishment of the Lokpal and the Lokayuktas. To make the institution more powerful and effective, it must be given three instruments ” independent investigation agency, independent inquiry agency and own prosecution.
