Gujarat HC upholds Lokayukta appointment,govt to challenge it in SC

Ahmedabad, 18 January 2012

Third judge Justice Sahay of Gujarat High Court today dismissed state government’s plea upholding the appointment of Lokayukta by Governor Kamla Beniwal. Justice Sahay agreed with earlier verdict of Justice Qureshi in this case and showed disagreement with Justice Gokani who had given judgement in favor of the government.

The state government has an option to go to the Supreme Court.

Reacting to this development, Gujarat Congress Chief Arjun Modhwadia said their stand is vindicated. Modhwadia incidentally was in Delhi to meet Indian National Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi at her bungalow.

Retired Justice RA Mehta was appointed Gujarat Lokayukta by state governor Kmla Beniwal in August 2011.

After two judges differed in their judgement, a newly appointed acting Chief Justice sent this case to third judge Justice Sahai who today gave verdict in favor of Governor.

The case will now go to the bench of three judges, Justice Qureshi, Justice Gokani and Justice Sahai. Two of them are in favor of Governor’s decision.

It is to see whether retired Justice RA Mehta will take oath before the state govt moves to Supreme Court or not.

Reacting to verdict, Gujarat government spokesperson minister Shri Jaynarayan Vyas told media persons that Gujarat government is firm on its earlier stand on this issue. He said the government will challenge Gujarat High Court verdict in the Supreme Court.