BENGALURU: Governor Vajubhai Vala has once again declined to give his consent to appoint retired High Court judge K L Manjunath for the post of Upa Lokayukta.
Vala on Tuesday returned the state government’s recommendation naming Justice Manjunath for the post and has reportedly sought a few clarifications in the light of some allegations against the latter.
This is the second time that the Governor has refused to give his consent for the appointment of Manjunath to the anti-corruption watchdog. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “The Governor has not rejected the file ... He has only sought some clarifications for the second time and we will reply to it”.
Jayachandra Defends Choice
Law Minister T B Jayachandra defended the government’s choice of Justice Manjuanth for the post. “There is no evidence to substantiate the charges against Justice Manjunath. When the charges are baseless, why should the government change its choice?” Jayachandra asked. “I will meet the Governor, if necessary, to clarify matters,” he told reporters.