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Justice Sandeep Shinde Sworn In as New Goa Lokayukta After Vacancy

Former Bombay High Court Chief Justice Sandeep Kashinath Shinde was sworn in as the new Lokayukta of Goa at Raj Bhavan. The position had been vacant since the tenure of the previous Lokayukta, Justice Ambadas Joshi, ended in December 2024. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant extended congratulations, while Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao welcomed the appointment but stressed the need for adequate support for the office. Alemao expressed hope that the new Lokayukta would address pending anti-corruption cases and scrutinize the government's functioning.

Key Points: Justice Sandeep Shinde Appointed Goa Lokayukta

  • Post vacant since Dec 2024
  • Oath administered by Governor
  • CM Pramod Sawant congratulates
  • Opposition welcomes appointment
  • 20+ anti-corruption cases pending
2 min read

Justice Sandeep Kashinath Shinde sworn in as Goa Lokayukta

Former Bombay High Court Chief Justice Sandeep Shinde sworn in as Goa Lokayukta, filling a post vacant since December 2024.

"There is hope that he will provide some hope regarding the way this government is functioning, the scams... - Yuri Alemao"

Dona Paula, March 4

Former Chief Justice of Bombay High Court Sandeep Kashinath Shinde was sworn in as the new Lokayukta of Goa on Wednesday.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also attends the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Lokayukta at Raj Bhavan.

Speaking to ANI, Sawant said, "The Governor has administered the oath of office to Goa's new Lokayukta today. On behalf of the Goa government and the people of Goa, I heartily congratulate former Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Mr Sandeep Shinde. He took the oath today and is taking charge from today. The post of Lokayukta had been vacant for many days, and his office was vacant. So, from today, he will take over the office and continue his work. My best wishes to him. Thank you."

Shinde's appointment comes after the post remained vacant since December 2024, following the tenure of the previous Lokayukta, Justice Ambadas Joshi.

Reacting to the development, Goa Leader of Opposition (LoP) and Congress leader Yuri Alemao welcomed the appointment.

While speaking to the media, he said, "Today, when this position, since December 2024, was vacant. Joshi Ji was the last Lokayukta. And time and again, we wrote letters to the government saying that this position needs to be filled. Today, we welcome Justice Sandeep Shinde. And there is hope among the people of Goa. There is hope that he will provide some hope regarding the way this government is functioning, the scams, the way people are moving forward, and how certain issues need to be raised. There are about 20 anti-corruption cases that are pending, and these cases need to be brought to a logical conclusion."

"But the government should ensure that the vigilance department and the Lokayukta are given a sufficient support system financially, administratively, and with staff. It should not just be another part of a window system or window dressing. So we have a lot of hope. The people of Goa have a lot of hope in the Lokayukta, and definitely, the complaints that have been pending for so long, the extensive corruption carried out by this government, will be exposed. I hope and have faith that the Goa Lokayukta will take this up," he added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
The LoP Yuri Alemao has raised a very valid point. Appointment is one thing, but will the government provide the Lokayukta office with real teeth, funds, and staff? Or is this just for show? The 20 pending cases need urgent attention.
M
Michael C
As someone who follows Goa's governance, I hope this brings transparency. The previous vacancy created a gap in accountability. Justice Shinde's experience is commendable. Let's see action on the ground now.
P
Priyanka N
Finally! Good to see a respected judge taking charge. Goa has been in the news for all the wrong reasons lately. Hope the Lokayukta can clean up the system and restore some public trust. Jai Hind!
A
Aman W
With due respect to the new appointee, I have to say this feels like a delayed reaction. Why did it take over two months to fill such a crucial post? The government's urgency (or lack thereof) in matters of accountability is telling.
K
Kavitha C
A former Chief Justice of Bombay HC is a very strong choice for Goa Lokayukta. His experience will be invaluable. Hope he gets full cooperation from all departments. The people are watching with hope. 🤞

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