Srinagar: In a significant move to uphold transparency and efficiency in public service delivery, the Jammu and Kashmir Revenue Department, acting on directions issued by Chief Secretary, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, has directed Deputy Commissioners to take stringent action against defaulters of the Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011.
The directive follows a recent comprehensive review of the department, aimed at ensuring that citizens receive timely and hassle-free access to essential government services.
Pertinently, the Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011, is a landmark legislation in the region, which mandates the timely delivery of various government services to the citizens. These services encompass a wide range, including issuance of domicile certificates, ration cards, revenue-related documents, and land records, among others. The Act aims to bring about transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the functioning of government departments.
It may be recalled that Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, while overseeing the department’s review, expressed his concerns about the prevailing laxity in enforcing the provisions of the Act. He stressed the need to hold defaulters accountable and ensure that citizens’ entitlements are not denied or delayed due to administrative lapses.
An official while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “The DCs have been tasked with initiating disciplinary action against government officials and employees who are found guilty of not adhering to the provisions of the Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011. This may include suspensions, inquiries, and other appropriate measures to address violations.”
The move, according to the officials, is expected to bring about a sea change in the way government services are delivered to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. “Defaulters will now face the risk of serious consequences for any negligence or delay in providing essential services. This, in turn, is likely to enhance the citizens’ faith in government departments and ensure a smoother and more efficient process of availing government services,” officials added.
“The Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011, was enacted to ensure that citizens are not subjected to prolonged delays and bureaucratic hassles while availing essential government services. It is our duty to uphold the principles enshrined in this act, and we are determined to do so,” they said, adding, “The Revenue Department, in coordination with Deputy Commissioners, will also conduct periodic reviews to monitor the progress in implementing the directive and to track the number of defaulters brought to justice. This regular monitoring will help ensure the sustained enforcement of the Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011, and hold accountable those who fail to meet the prescribed service timelines.”
