New Delhi, 2 January 2013

The Supreme Court today dismissed Gujarat government’s plea challenging Governor Kamla Beniwal’s decision to appoint retired Justice RA Mehta without consulting the council of ministers. The Supreme Court upheld appointment of Justice RA Mehta as Gujarat’s Lokayukta.

The Supreme Court observed that Governor is bound to act under advice of Council of Ministers but appointment is right as it was done in consultation with Gujarat High Court Chief Justice.

Meanwhile reacting to the Supreme Court verdict, Gujarat Law Minister Shri Bhupendrasinh Chudasama in presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi told media persons in Gandhinagar today that the SC verdict has partially upheld the state government’s view that Governor needs to take decision in consultation with the council of ministers. Chuadama further said that the state government will study the verdict and react further. He added that the state government would immediately implement the SC order.