At the 40-year celebration of the Karnataka Lokayukta in Bengaluru, the CJI praised its role in ensuring accountability and public trust. New digital tools for investigations and asset disclosure were launched to strengthen anti-corruption efforts.
Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant attended a special event in Bengaluru to celebrate 40 years of the Karnataka Lokayukta. The event was held at the Banquet Hall of Vidhana Soudha and marked four decades of the institution’s service since it was established in 1986.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, CJI Surya Kant praised the Lokayukta and called it the “conscience of the state.” He explained that in India’s constitutional system, power is not something to enjoy but something to use responsibly for the benefit of people. He stressed that governance is based on public trust, and those in power must always act with responsibility and honesty.
While addressing judges, lawyers, and government officials present at the event, he said,
“Legacy is not merely the passage of time, but the service rendered to the people. For 40 years, this institution has reminded us that authority is trust, and duty is not a privilege.”
He highlighted that the Lokayukta has played an important role in keeping the government accountable and ensuring transparency, especially in matters related to administration and natural resources.
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During the event, the Chief Justice also launched new digital initiatives to improve the functioning of the institution. These included an Online Investigation Module and a new portal where elected representatives can declare their assets and liabilities. He also released a special commemorative magazine titled “Lokayukta,” which documents the journey and achievements of the institution over the past 40 years.
Justice Aravind Kumar also spoke at the event and described the Karnataka Lokayukta as one of the most effective anti-corruption bodies in the country. He said its real strength lies in giving power to ordinary citizens to raise their voice against corruption and misuse of authority.
Lokayukta Justice B S Patil shared details about the institution’s work and achievements. He stated that since its establishment, the Lokayukta has handled and disposed of more than 1.51 lakh cases. He also said that despite facing several challenges, the institution remains committed to fighting corruption, nepotism, and poor administration.
The event was also attended by Upa-Lokayuktas Justice K N Phaneendra and Justice B Veerappa, Advocate General K Shashi Kiran Shetty, and Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
The programme ended with a seminar on how complaints are handled under the Lokayukta Act and what steps can be taken to prevent corruption more effectively in the future. The discussions focused on improving grievance redressal systems and strengthening transparency in governance.
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