Karnataka: Governor Vajubhai Vala’s no to Upa-lokayukta’s name

Bengaluru: For the second time in recent days, Governor Vajubhai Vala has rejected the state government proposal for appointment of retired high court judge, Justice K.L. Manjunath, for the post of Upa-lokayukta, adding to tension between Raj Bhavan and the state government.

According to official sources, after Mr Vala sought clarifications following petitions submitted by RTI activists listing some charges against Justice Manjunath, the government submitted the proposal for the second time. The Governor, however, declined to approve the appointment without citing any reasons.

Evidently, the government did not consult the selection committee comprising the presiding officers of both Houses and leaders of Opposition of the Legislative Assembly and the Council.