Ramesh Chennithala | Photo: Sreejith P Raj|Mathrubhumi
Thiruvananthapuram: Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday stated that the government is moving a writ petition against the Lokayukta appointed by the government themselves. He was responding to the news that government may approach court against the Lokayukta verdict against former minister KT Jaleel.
The Lokayukta was appointed by a committee including the Chief Minister, Speaker and I. But the decision was not as per my recommendation, Chennithala added while speaking to reporters here.
He also stated that if Jaleel had resigned soon after Lokayukta verdict, the morality claim could have been justified.
KPCC President Mullappally Ramachandran asked why Jaleel’s resignation drama was staged if government was moving writ petition. He also alleged that Jaleel resigned to save face.
The state government had received legal advice from the Advocate General it could move court with a writ petition against the Lokayukta verdict. As the government didn’t get an opportunity to explain its stance, it can approach the court. Also there were lapses in the procedures of Lokayukta. It should have followed the procedures similar to that of a civil court. It can’t simply rule to remove the minister, AG told the government.
Also, it was the government, even though with recommendation from Jaleel, which decided to alter the eligibility criteria for the controversial appointment. As government is part of the process, their version should also be heard. Lokayukta pronounced its verdict without considering the government’s argument, the advice further stated.
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