Kochi: In a major verdict with political and legal implications, the Kerala High Court has upheld the state government’s amendment to the Lokayukta Act, dismissing a petition filed by opposition leaders led by Ramesh Chennithala. The Division Bench comprising Justice S. Soumen Sen and Justice V. M. Syam Kumar ruled in favour of the amendment, approving it with minor modifications.
The court clarified that if the Legislative Assembly fails to act on a Lokayukta recommendation within three months, the report can be treated as accepted—adding a defined timeline to the process. One of the most significant changes allows decisions against ministers to be reviewed by the Chief Minister, and rulings against the Chief Minister to be examined by the Assembly, replacing the earlier provision that empowered the Lokayukta to directly order removal from office.
The opposition had strongly opposed the amendment, arguing that it would dilute the strength of anti-corruption laws and interfere with judicial authority. However, the High Court rejected these claims, giving legal backing to the state’s revised framework.
The amendment had earlier secured approval from Arif Mohammad Khan, who referred the bill for Presidential assent. With the latest changes, the Governor’s appellate powers have also been removed, bringing the Lokayukta law closer in structure to the national Lokpal system.
