Maharashtra assembly approves amendment to Lokayukta act, bringing IAS officers under scrutiny

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): Within just 24 hours of senior social activist Anna Hazare's warning regarding the Lokayukta Act in Maharashtra, the state government has swung into action. On Thursday, Anna Hazare had issued an ultimatum that if the Lokayukta Act was not implemented in the state, he would begin a fast unto death from January 2026. The very next day after this warning, on Friday, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly approved a very important amendment to the Lokayukta Act, 2023. Under this historic decision, Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers have now also been included in the ambit of the Lokayukta Act, which is expected to increase transparency and accountability in the state's administrative system.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis himself tabled the amendment proposal in the Assembly, which was approved by the House. He clarified that the amendment aims to bring clarity to the law by determining which public servants will be subject to scrutiny. According to the new rules, IAS officers appointed by the state government to any board, corporation, committee, or other government institution in the state will now be accountable to the Lokayukta. The government argues that this will eliminate any conflict between central and state government laws and provide a strong legal basis for the fight against corruption.

It is noteworthy that Anna Hazare's movements have a history of shaking governments. During the UPA government's tenure, the anti-corruption movement led by him took nationwide form, resulting not only in the demand for a Jan Lokpal, but also in the Aam Aadmi Party, born out of this movement, which is now in power in Delhi and Punjab. Recognizing Anna's influence and the threat of a hunger strike in January 2026, the Maharashtra government has taken this swift action. The government wants to convey the message that it is pursuing a zero-tolerance policy against corruption and is sensitive to Anna's demands.

Although the Assembly has decided to bring IAS officers under the ambit of the law, Anna Hazare's core issue remains unresolved. Anna's primary concern is that the date for the Lokayukta system to be implemented on the ground in Maharashtra under the provisions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, remains unclear. While the amendments have strengthened the framework of the law, uncertainty remains about its full implementation. It will be interesting to see whether Anna Hazare is satisfied with this government move or whether he remains firm on his proposed movement.