The Madhesh government has appointed Sanjeev Kumar Jha and Sujata Bimal to the two vacant member positions of the Janlokpal Commission. The newly appointed members, Sanjeev Kumar Jha and Sujata Bimal, took the oath of office and secrecy from Provincial Chief Surendra Labh. These positions became vacant following the resignation of members Rajkishor Sah and Shobha Mahto last Poush, citing the commission’s ineffectiveness.
Jestha 12, Janakpurdham – The Madhesh government has filled the two vacant member positions in the largely inactive Janlokpal Commission. Sanjeev Kumar Jha from Aurahi Municipality-7, Mahottari, and Sujata Bimal from Sripur-8, Mahottari, were appointed as members of the commission. Both took the oath of office and confidentiality today from Provincial Chief Surendra Labh.
According to the Janlokpal Act 2077, the chairperson and members of the commission are appointed by the Provincial Chief based on recommendations from the Chief Minister, Speaker, and the leader of the opposition. Under Chief Minister Lalbabu Raut’s leadership, a three-member commission including the chairperson was formed on Bhadra 22, 2078. However, in the four and a half years since formation, the commission’s work and effectiveness have been minimal.
The Janlokpal Commission, established to promote good governance, became dysfunctional with members Rajkishor Sah and Shobha Mahto resigning in Poush 2081, leaving only Chairperson Ramsahay Prasad Yadav on the panel. The government had previously tried to dissolve the commission for its inactivity. However, the current three-party coalition government has reappointed two members for the next five years. The commission continues to face criticism for being used as a center for political party worker recruitment. Despite this, two new members have now been appointed after four years without any major achievements.
