CM Omar Abdullah reviews implementation of Public Services Guarantee Act

Srinagar, July 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the implementation status of the Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA), reaffirming his government’s firm commitment to delivering essential public services in a timely, accountable, and transparent manner.

During the meeting, which was attended by senior bureaucrats and heads of key departments, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of the PSGA as a cornerstone of citizen-centric governance. He emphasized that the Act is not merely a policy framework, but a legal assurance to the people that their basic service needs—ranging from water and electricity to certificates and clearances—must be met within specified timelines.

“The people must not be made to run from pillar to post. Governance must be measured by how swiftly and transparently it responds to citizens’ needs,” Omar Abdullah said, reiterating that his administration remains deeply committed to public accountability at every level.

Officials were directed to closely monitor service delivery performance across departments, with special focus on redressing delays and fixing systemic inefficiencies. The Chief Minister also reviewed the grievance redressal mechanisms in place under PSGA and sought monthly compliance reports from all departments.

Calling for a culture of administrative responsibility, Omar Abdullah stated, “A responsive and responsible government is the foundation of trust in public institutions. We will not tolerate complacency or indifference in service delivery.”

The PSGA mandates time-bound delivery of various public services and imposes penalties on officials for unjustified delays. It is seen as a significant step toward empowering citizens and reforming public administration in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister urged all officers to treat every citizen request as a matter of priority and directed the concerned authorities to conduct awareness drives so that people are fully informed of their rights under the Act. [KNT]