Will remodel Lokayukta Bill once back in power: Cong

The party’s demands included that the Lokayukta should be a seven-member body as not three and have powers to prosecute anyone against whom charges of corruption have been proved. It also seeks that the Lokayukta would not have to ask for permission from the government or the Assembly to prosecute the chief minister.

“By passing a weak and toothless Bill,the chief minister has clearly compromised with corruption. He had not removed Health Minister Rajeev Bindal even after the Opposition boycotted him during the whole Assembly session,” said Stokes.

Flanked by other party MLAs,Stokes took strong exception that Dhumal did not make any effort to hold talks with the Opposition to arrive at a consensus on the Bill. “If the Prime Minister at the Centre can hold discussions with Opposition leaders and political parties,why can’t the same happen here?” she asked.

She alleged that the government had informed the Opposition about the draft Bill being put up in its website only two days ago. “Why didn’t they send us the draft to study and listen to our suggestions before bringing it to the House?” Stokes said. Congress had also prepared a draft Bill,but the government did not invite the Opposition for discussions,she added.

When contacted,Dhumal said: “The BJP was voted to power by the people and it — not the Congress — has the right to make laws for the benefit of the people. This is the best,most practical Bill and in accordance with constitutional provisions.”