From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Nov 4: For the third time, Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala has turned down the State Government’s recommendation of Justice K L Manjunath for the post of the Karnataka Upa Lokyukta.

The Governor on Tuesday has returned the Siddaramaiah Government's recommendation of Justice Manjunath for the post and has reportedly sought a few clarifications in the light of some allegations against Manjunath.

This is the second time the Governor has refused to give his consent for the appointment of Manjunath for the anti-corruption agency.

Reacting to Governor's action, Chief Minister Sidaramaiah said: "The Governor has not rejected the file sent by government. He has only sought some clarifications for the second time and we will reply to it accordingly."

However, Karnataka’s Law and Parliamentary Affairs minister TB Jayacandra has strongly defended the State Government's choice of Justice Manjuanth for the post of Upa Lokayukta.

"There is no evidence to substantiate charges against Justice Manjunath. When the charges are baseless, why should the government change its choice," Jayachandra asked.

Replying questions from reporters in Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday, Jayachandra said he would meet the Governor if necessary to provide clarifications sought by the Governor in this regard.

"We do not see any valid grounds for objecting to Justice Manjunath’s appointment," he said adding: "The Judge has all the necessary credentials to hold the post.’’