Lokpal's Order to Probe High Court Judge Put on Hold by Supreme Court
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has stayed the Lokpal's order to investigate a High Court judge, citing the need for a thorough examination of the allegations. The apex court has also issued notices to the Centre and the complainant, seeking their responses on the matter. The Lokpal, India's anti-corruption ombudsman, had ordered a probe into allegations of misconduct against the High Court judge. However, the judge had approached the Supreme Court, challenging the Lokpal's order and arguing that it was unconstitutional and lacked jurisdiction.
A bench of justices, led by Justice SA Bobde, heard the judge's plea and decided to stay the Lokpal's order. The bench observed that the allegations against the judge were serious and required a thorough investigation. However, it also noted that the Lokpal's order was passed without giving the judge an opportunity to be heard. "We are not saying that the Lokpal does not have the power to investigate. But the question is whether the Lokpal has the power to investigate a High Court judge," Justice Bobde observed.
The Supreme Court's decision has been seen as a significant setback for the Lokpal, which was established to investigate complaints of corruption against public servants, including judges. The Lokpal had argued that it had the power to investigate the High Court judge, citing the provisions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. However, the Supreme Court's decision has raised questions about the Lokpal's jurisdiction and its powers to investigate judges. The court's decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the functioning of the Lokpal and its ability to investigate complaints of corruption against public servants.
The case has also highlighted the need for greater clarity on the powers and jurisdiction of the Lokpal. The government has been criticized for its failure to provide adequate guidance on the functioning of the Lokpal, leading to confusion and controversy. The Supreme Court's decision has been welcomed by many, who see it as a necessary check on the powers of the Lokpal. However, others have expressed concern that the decision could undermine the effectiveness of the Lokpal and its ability to investigate complaints of corruption. The case is likely to continue to generate controversy and debate in the coming days, as the Supreme Court hears arguments from the Centre, the complainant and the High Court judge.
