This refers to the report “Retd Justice R A Mehta declines to take charge as Gujarat Lokayukta” (August 8). The post of the Lokayukta in Gujarat has been lying vacant since November 24, 2003. After an initial delay of three years by the state government to make a move to fill the position, the next five years were consumed in a mire of controversy between the state governor and the chief minister, about the procedure and the personalities chosen for appointment. And the government prolonged the delay by another two years via the litigation route.
What is notable is the vehemence with which the chief minister is pursuing the matter to have a person of his choice in such a sensitive job. He approached the Supreme Court three times through appeal, review and curative petitions and failed. Assertiveness in matters of national interest such as tackling terrorism and corrupt elements is welcome, but not against established institutions. Further, recalling that he refused to help his party in the recent Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections because his bête noire was given a responsible job over there, he comes across as a politician who places his personal interests above those of his party. All this does not fit well with his image of a future prime minister.
Also, kudos to Justice Mehta for declining the prestigious position because of the unsavoury and unwarranted controversy it created. It is a refreshing gesture in an era where retired bigwigs accept, and even seek, a sinecure. Lastly, the governor, too, does not come out well on this issue, showing more hostility than a spirit of accommodation.
Y G Chouksey Pune
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