The first state in India to establish the institution of Lokayukta was:

Maharashtra was the first state to establish the institution of Lokayukta, through the Maharashtra Lokayukta and Upa-Lokayuktas Act, 1971, and the first Lokayukta was appointed in 1972.

Note on Odisha:

Odisha had passed a law on the subject earlier, but it came into force only later, so Maharashtra is generally regarded as the first state to set up the institution.

What a Lokayukta does:

• A Lokayukta is an anti-corruption ombudsman at the state level.
• He investigates complaints of corruption and maladministration against public servants, including ministers and officials, in the state.

How the idea came about:

• A central commission on administrative reform recommended a two-tier system of ombudsmen: a body at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states.
• The idea was based on the ombudsman model followed in several European countries.

Spread to other states:

• After Maharashtra, many states set up Lokayuktas, such as Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka.
• The structure, powers and jurisdiction of Lokayuktas vary from state to state.
• Some Lokayuktas, such as those of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, became well known for their investigations.

Law requiring Lokayuktas:

A central law later required every state to establish a Lokayukta within a year, by a law of its legislature.

Powers of Lokayuktas:

• They can investigate complaints, inspect records and summon witnesses.
• Some have their own investigating machinery, while others depend on the state police.
• Their recommendations are usually advisory, and the government decides on action.

Criticism:

• In many states, Lokayuktas are not fully independent and lack adequate powers and staff.
• Chief Ministers are not covered in some states.

Why not the other options?

• ✗Odisha passed a law earlier but implemented it later.
• ✗Karnataka and Rajasthan set up Lokayuktas after Maharashtra.