Office Of The Odisha Lokayukta vs Pradeep Kumar Panigrahi

The Supreme Court examined whether the Odisha Lokayukta's order to initiate a preliminary inquiry against an elected MLA was valid, considering the procedural fairness and opportunity of hearing. The High Court had set aside the Lokayukta's order, prompting the Supreme Court to evaluate the legality of the process. The Court emphasized the importance of adhering to principles of natural justice before initiating such proceedings. Ultimately, the Court upheld the procedural safeguards and the authority of the Lokayukta under the Odisha Lokayukta Act, 2014.