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Maharashtra Passes Lokayukta Amendments Clarifying Jurisdiction Over State-Appointed Officials

Implementation now awaits the governor's approval.

Overview

  • The legislature cleared the amended Lokayukta Act on December 11 after incorporating inputs from the President’s office.
  • The law specifies that officials appointed by Maharashtra to bodies formed under Central laws fall under the Lokayukta, while entities appointed solely by the Union remain under the Lokpal.
  • References to repealed Central statutes are updated to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.
  • The framework covers the chief minister, ministers, legislators and IAS officers with high thresholds for probes, including a two‑thirds Assembly vote to investigate a chief minister.
  • The Act defines the Lokayukta’s structure and powers, enables referrals to special courts, and ensures the incumbent continues until a successor is appointed once the law takes effect.