Lokayukta in Himachal Pradesh | HPPSC HPAS Preparation - HPPSC HPAS (Himachal Pardesh) PDF Download

The Lokayukta is an essential anti-corruption institution in India, designed to investigate and address cases of corruption. By ensuring transparency and accountability, the Lokayukta plays a crucial role in making administrative systems more citizen-friendly. In Himachal Pradesh, the Lokayukta operates under the Himachal Pradesh Lokayukta Act, which was enacted in 1983. Here is a detailed overview of the Lokayukta’s role, eligibility, and historical appointments in Himachal Pradesh.

Role of Lokayukta

• Anti-Corruption Ombudsman: The Lokayukta investigates allegations of corruption against public officials. If the investigations are substantiated, the Lokayukta recommends appropriate actions.
• Promoting Transparency: Through its investigations and recommendations, the Lokayukta helps to bring about greater transparency in governmental operations.
• Enhancing Accountability: The institution acts as a check on administrative practices, ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
• Citizen-Friendly Administration: By addressing corruption and promoting fair practices, the Lokayukta helps to make the administrative machinery more responsive and friendly to citizens.

Himachal Pradesh Lokayukta Act

• Enactment Year: The Himachal Pradesh Lokayukta Act was passed in 1983, establishing the framework for the Lokayukta's role in the state.
• Appointment Process: The Governor appoints the Lokayukta after consulting the Chief Justice of the High Court and the Leader of the Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly. The Lokayukta serves a term of 5 years.
• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the position of Lokayukta, a person must have served as either a judge of the Supreme Court or as the Chief Justice of a High Court in India.

List of Lokayuktas in Himachal Pradesh

Justice T.V.R. Tatachari

• Tenure: 17 August 1983 to 16 August 1988
• He was the first Lokayukta appointed under the Himachal Pradesh Lokayukta Act.

Justice R.B. Mishra

• Tenure: 4 November 1988 to 3 November 1993
• His tenure marked a continuation of the institution's efforts in addressing corruption.

Justice P.C. Balakrishnamenon

• Tenure: 2 February 1994 to 11 July 1999
• Oversaw significant developments in anti-corruption measures during his term.

Justice Om Prakash

• Tenure: 12 July 1999 to 7 May 2002
• Contributed to the strengthening of anti-corruption frameworks.

Justice Bhawani Singh

• Tenure: 7 May 2006 to 5 April 2011
• His tenure saw continued efforts to improve transparency and accountability.

Justice Lokeshwar Singh Panta

• Tenure: 3 February 2012 to present
• Currently serving as the Lokayukta, continuing the legacy of his predecessors.

Recent Appointment

Justice Chander Bhushan Barowalia

• Appointment Date: November 2022
• Justice Barowalia is the current Lokayukta of Himachal Pradesh, appointed to further the mission of combating corruption and promoting transparency in the state.