Srinagar, July 7: In a move to enhance public service delivery and streamline grievance redressal mechanisms, the Administrative Council led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has approved the establishment of a separate Public Grievances Department in Jammu and Kashmir.
This decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring efficient governance and addressing the concerns and grievances of citizens in a timely and effective manner.
An official said, “The creation of a dedicated Public Grievances Department comes as a response to the growing need for an organized and systematic approach to handle public complaints and concerns. The department will function as a central authority responsible for receiving, analyzing, and redressing grievances across various government departments and agencies.”
He said, “By establishing a separate entity for grievance redressal, the government aims to streamline the process and ensure that citizens’ complaints are resolved promptly. The new department will act as a focal point for citizens to voice their concerns and seek resolution for issues they encounter while accessing public services or dealing with the government authorities.”
“One of the primary advantages of this initiative is that it provides a structured mechanism to address grievances. Citizens will have a designated platform to submit their complaints, ensuring that no concern goes unnoticed. The department will have the authority to investigate complaints thoroughly, gather relevant information, and take appropriate action to resolve them,” the official added.
Pertinently, during the past few years the government has introduced multiple grievance redressal portals to address the issues of the common people. These portals have made the system transparent and accountable. “A robust grievance redressal system acts as a deterrent to corruption and maladministration, as it encourages public officials to address issues promptly and effectively. It fosters a culture of accountability within the bureaucracy and helps build public trust in the government’s ability to address their concerns,” said a resident Farooq Ahmed.
He said, “The introduction of online portals and helpline numbers have enabled the citizens to register their complaints conveniently. The digital infrastructure has streamlined the entire process. It has made it easier for citizens to access grievance redressal services and track the progress of their complaints.”
It’s in place to mention here that officials handling the grievances have been trained to effectively communicate with people and get their issues resolved through proper means. By equipping the personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge, the government has put in place a responsive and citizen-centric grievance redressal system. By streamlining the grievance redressal process, the new department established by the government promises to provide timely resolutions, foster transparency, and enhance accountability.
“Citizens can look forward to a more efficient and responsive administration that actively seeks to address their concerns. The department’s establishment signifies a renewed focus on citizen engagement and public participation, ultimately leading to a stronger and more inclusive system,” the official added.
