New Delhi, July 18 (IANS) Delhi Lokayukta (ombudsman) Manmohan Sarin Monday came down heavily on Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, saying she misrepresented facts about the completion of 60,000 low-cost flats ahead of distribution in the run-up to the 2008 assembly elections. The Lokayukta has recommended President Pratibha Patil to censure her.

In his order, the Lokayukta urged the people to stand up against unethical practices and build strong public opinion to ensure that public functionaries adhere to "high standards of integrity and conduct".

Dikshit refused to comment on the order. She said distribution of flats was a complex process and that the government was not trying to mislead anybody.

The Lokayukta alleged that despite knowing that 60,000 flats were not ready, Dikshit made the announcement to gain or favour to herself or her political party ahead of the elections.

This is the second time this year that the Lokayukta has passed a strong order against a state government functionary.

In March, Justice Sarin recommended to the president to withdraw her "pleasure" in allowing Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan to continue in the Delhi government for his alleged involvement in protecting a leading resort in a tax evasion case.

The suggestion was rejected by the president.