Dimapur, Sep. 30 (EMN): Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (Acaut) has termed it ‘unfortunate’ that the state government has sought to remove the Lokayukta, ‘who is seen as a person determined to carry forward what is expected of the much needed institution to cleanse the rot in the system.’
A statement from Acaut on Wednesday reminded the government that the days of ‘unhindered corruption’ cannot continue and it must reconcile to the new reality. It mentioned that even the governor of Nagaland, while raising the issue of law and order in a recent letter, has alluded to reports of CAG on siphoning off of funds with impunity across various departments.
“While some of this may be attributed to demands by various NPGs as it has been stated in the high powered commission report, it has also been found out that the misuse of a substantial chunk of the development funds is solely attributed to rampant corruption,” Acaut alleged.
Acaut also felt that the writ petition filed by the state government in the Supreme Court was devoid of sound judgement. It questioned how could a Upa- Lokayukta hold the powers and functions of Lokayukta when the incumbent Upa-Lokayukta does not possess the required qualification and criteria to be the Lokayukta as per the Lokayukta Act. It urged the popularly elected government to make tangible allegations against the accused, if any, based on justifiable and objective allegations, rather than personal habits and eccentricities.
It mentioned that Acaut was successful in getting the Lokayukta Bill passed and Nagaland has a Lokayukta after a long drawn-out battle. Acaut, however, stated that it was rendered toothless in the face of the issues raised by the governor.
To ensure that the people's trust in the institution does not die an untimely and premature demise, Acaut has urged the government of the day to appoint a full-fledged registrar for Lokayukta.
It has also urged to strengthen the Lokayukta police, especially the investigation wing. It stated that in most states, the Lokayukta or directorate of vigilance and anti-corruption are headed by officers equivalent to the rank of additional DGP or a senior officer of at least 25 years as an IPS cadre. Assuming that the CAG objections need to be probed, Acaut claimed that the current staff strength is minuscule. It also stated that the Lokayukta police needs to have offices in other districts of the state like Dimapur, Mokokchung and Tuensang, with each establishment being headed by a DIG/SSP and commensurate staff for investigation and support.
Pointing out that the Nagaland Lokayukta does not have framed rules, Acaut has urged the government to implement on priority basis, after due consultations with the Lokayukta and civil societies.
Acaut also demanded that ‘eligible candidates with impeccable integrity without any political leaning should be selected to the various vacant posts without further delay.’ Also emphasising on the importance to create public awareness on corruption, Acaut has further sought adequate funds for Lokayukta.