SC appoints Virendra Singh as Lokayukta of Uttar Pradesh

The Supreme Court has appointed Justice (Retd) Virendra Singh as new Lokayukta of Uttar Pradesh.
The first of its kind order given , the SC has invoked its constitutional power and appointed retired HC judge as UP Lokayukta after state machinery failed to appoint it. The order was given as per Article 142 of Constitution.
The Supreme Court observed that

• The failure of constitutional functionaries to comply with the orders of the apex court of the country is deeply regretted and astonishing.
• Expressed displeasure that Chief Minister, leader of opposition and Chief Justice of High Court failed to comply with its order.

Justice (Retd) Virendra Singh is a native of western Uttar Pradesh. He has served as Judge of Allahabad High Court from 2009 to 2011 and had superannuated in 2011.
Background
The Supreme Court’s order came after State Selection Panel of Lokayukta comprising Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, leader of Opposition (LoP) Swami Prasad Maurya and Chief Justice of Allahabad high court Justice DY Chandrachud could not reach on any consensus.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2015