Jharkhand HC raps govt over delay in constitutional appointments, sets 10-day deadline

RANCHI: Expressing strong displeasure over the continued vacancy of key constitutional posts in Jharkhand, including the Lokayukta and the Information Commissioner, the High Court on Monday issued a final 10-day ultimatum to the government.

Hearing a PIL, the court made it clear that if notifications for these appointments are not issued within the stipulated period, the state government will have to face consequences.

Adopting a stern stance, a bench led by Chief Justice M.S. Sonak observed that the delay in filling these crucial posts is no longer acceptable.

Terming it a final opportunity, the court directed the government to complete the appointment process within 10 days, without fail. The matter is now scheduled for further hearing on April 23.

During the proceedings, Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan informed the court that a selection committee meeting held on March 25 had recommended names, and the file was sent to the Raj Bhavan. However, it was later withdrawn.