Rising Peoples Party (RPP) has welcomed the Gauhati High Court, Kohima bench decision granting an interim stay on the operation of the two amendments to the Nagaland Lokayukta Act, 2017.
RPP said that the court’s timely intervention ensured the protection of public interest and the preservation of an independent and effective Lokayukta in Nagaland. RPP expressed hope that the proceedings would restore the institution’s ability to combat corruption effectively. It said the court granted an interim stay following to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Lhikhro Kreo representing RPP.
It also extended gratitude to advocate S. Borgohain and the legal team for their diligent efforts. RPP said Lokayukta was the sole anti-corruption authority, tasked with investigating and addressing complaints of corruption and misconduct against public servants, including government officials and elected representatives.
However, the party said that Nagaland was facing a unique challenge as the state’s Lokayukta has been plagued by issues that had effectively paralyzed its functioning over the years.
Marred by several complications, RPP said the amendments made by the state government were in contravention with Principal Act of 2013. It said the amendments defeated the purpose of the Lok Ayukta. “Unless the amendments are done away with, the Lok Ayukta cannot perform the intended purpose of fighting corruption,” RPP stated.