There is no question of opting for the second term. I am happy with what I have done and I will carry the memories with me, said Upa Lokayukta G. Patri Basavana Goud, whose term will end on December 28.
“The Karnataka Lokayukta Act does not permit a second term for the post. Even if the Act was to be amended and provision made for the second term, I will not opt for it,” he said.
Mr. Goud was commenting on the reports in a section of media that the Government could give him a second term by amending the Act. The Section 5 of the Act deals with the appointment of Lokayukta and Upa Lokayukta. A retired high court judge is appointed for the post. The term is for a period of five years. The Act specifically states that the person so appointed cannot enjoy a second term and also cannot hold any office of profit after serving the five-year term.
According to Mr. Goud, any ambition for a second term would affect the functioning in the first term. “I am a firm believer in the US Judge Jackson’s words that “Judges are more often bribed by their ambitions and loyalty than money”. I have acted dispassionately all through my career without being influenced by anybody,” he said.
The Dharam Singh Government appointed Mr. Goud to the post that was lying vacant for nearly two years following the retirement of G.P. Shivaprakash. The State Government was red over the then Lokayukta N. Venkatachala for use of the powers of Upa Lokayukta in taking action against officials guilty of corruption.
