Daijiworld Media Network – Mandya (SP)

Mandya, Jan 19: Former Karnataka Lokayukta, Justice Santosh Hedge, expressed the view that the Karnataka Governor should appoint the state Lokayukta, taking cue from the developments in Gujarat. He said that there is a need to urgently address the concerns of the people over the differences of opinion about the appointment of new Lokayukta.

He was speaking to media persons at Travellers Bungalow at Srirangapatna in the district, before participating in the convention to create awareness among people against corruption. The programme was organized by Raita Sangha, Hasiru Sene, and Karnataka Janapara Vedike.

“The Governor of Gujarat appointed Lokayukta, after the post remained vacant for six long years. The High Court there has also upheled the Governor’s action. Let our Governor too follow suit,” he commented. Speaking on the occasion, veteran leader, A K Subbaiah, sought Justice Bannurmath to make his reaction known over the controversy surrounding his choice by the government as the next Lokayukta, and reluctance of the governor towards it.

“Chief Minister, Sadananda Gowda, should not remain stubborn on the issue. He should recommend a suitable name to the Governor soon. If the Governor feels that Justice Bannurmath was not suitable for the post, why did not return the file with a memo?” Subbaiah questioned.