Kerala: The Governor signs an ordinance amending the Lok Ayukta Act

Governor Arif Mohammad Khan signed an ordinance amending the Lok Ayukta Act on Monday, providing a major relief to the Pinarayi-led ruling government. The governor's action occurred a day after he met with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan following his return from abroad.

The Governor had previously been asked not to endorse the ordinance by the Congress. The CPI(M)-led administration, according to the party, was attempting to pass the ordinance at a time when multiple complaints against the government were pending.

The CM is said to have explained to the governor why Section 14 of the Kerala Lok Ayukta Act, 1999, has to be amended, calling it as "constitutionally untenable." The government also got legal advice before proceeding with the modification.

The government will be able to arrange the assembly session by calling a cabinet meeting after signing the ordinance. The approval also eliminated the opposition's ability to object to the amendment during the assembly session.

The Chief Minister told the Governor that the decision was not politically influenced at the discussion. This could have influenced the Governor's position on the matter.

The government had already filed the ordinance in Raj Bhavan, claiming that the Lok Ayukta has unconstitutional powers.

For nearly two weeks, the Governor declined to sign the ordinance, requesting a response from the administration regarding the necessity to change it. VD Satheesan, the leader of the opposition, also wrote to the governor, demanding that he not sign the ordinance.