Module 03 — After filing — investigation, hearing, follow-up

Lokayukta investigations typically take 6-18 months. Phases:

1. Preliminary inquiry (1-3 months): is there a prima facie case?
2. Formal investigation (3-12 months): gather records, examine witnesses, hear respondent
3. Report (1-3 months): findings + recommendations

Delay is the norm. Six months is fast; 2 years is not unusual.

1. Provide additional documents when asked (don't volunteer; respond to written requests).
2. Attend hearings if summoned (rare for complainants).
3. Don't approach the respondent — that compromises the investigation.
4. Keep records of communications with the Lokayukta office.
5. File RTIs to the Lokayukta for status updates after 90 days of silence (it's legally allowed).

Under most state Acts, the Lokayukta has:

1. Power of a civil court (summons, examine on oath, require document production)
2. Power to refer for prosecution to relevant agency
3. Power to recommend disciplinary action to the appointing authority
4. Power to publish findings (in many states)

What Lokayukta CANNOT do directly: pass binding orders for compensation. But the recommendation, if accepted, is acted upon.

Lokayukta sends report to:

1. The respondent's appointing authority (usually CM or Governor)
2. The complainant (in summary form)
3. Made public (in many states)

Appointing authority must take action within a stipulated time (90-180 days). If not — complainant can:

1. File RTI for status
2. File PIL in HC for non-implementation
3. Approach the press

1. At 6 months from filing: if no acknowledgement, send a status query (registered post).
2. At 12 months: file RTI under §6(1) to Lokayukta office for status.
3. At 18 months: write to the Governor / CM with the file number.
4. At 24 months without report: consider HC writ for mandamus.
5. After report — no action: file PIL in HC for implementation.

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Last reviewed: 24 April 2026.