Citizens first initiative: Revenue officials to be accessible 24×7 in J&K’s Samba

In a pioneering move, revenue officials in Samba district will now be available round-the-clock to address public grievances. This decision, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, aims to ensure that Patwaris across the district remain accessible to address public concerns at any time. Closed User Group (CUG) SIM cards have also been allocated to officials to facilitate continuous public grievance redressal.

Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma expressed his commitment to the Citizens First Initiative, emphasizing the importance of public access to revenue officials around the clock. “We are striving to establish a system where the public can easily reach officials, and officials are readily available to provide services. SIM cards have been provided to officials, and their bills will be covered by the Government. We are dedicated to implementing more initiatives for the benefit of the general public,” he affirmed.

The directive states, “To ensure the institutionalization of the Offices of the Patwaris, all the GQs/Patwaris are directed to keep their mobile phones with CUG SIMs operational 24×7 to receive phone calls from the general public for redressing various issues related to services provided by the Revenue Department.”

Furthermore, the order emphasizes strict compliance with the directive, mandating that all Patwaris remain physically available at their respective designated offices as per scheduled days and times, in accordance with earlier circular directions.

Previously, the District Administration of Samba organized a Grievance Redressal Camp at Samba Fort, which commenced with a comprehensive review of the progress report from the previous Block Diwas, setting the stage for addressing community concerns. Residents raised pressing demands during the camp, including the need for improved road connectivity and water supply at Karad Panchayat. Specific requests, such as road connectivity from Sumb to Karad, bridge repairs at Sumb, and the restoration of old water bodies, were passionately voiced. Additionally, challenges related to inadequate teaching staff in government schools and issues concerning stray animals and bovine smuggling were highlighted.

This proactive approach by the District Administration of Samba underscores its commitment to enhancing public service delivery and addressing the needs of the local community.