M A I N   N E W S

Goa conclave ends with concerns over dist-level graft, red tape
Sukhbir for tech support, hiring outside talent; MLAs to give 3 ideas each
Jangveer Singh/TNS

Fort Aguada, April 9
The two-day SAD-BJP “Vichar Manthan” ended today with legislators unanimously pointing towards sluggish delivery system and rising corruption at the district level. But in the same breath they gave a “clean chit” to the administration at the state headquarters in Chandigarh.

Sukhbir’s suggestions Deputy Commissioners to be made more accountable Officials with poor reputation to be denied field postings Officials having served for long periods at one place to be posted out

The perception of the government at the ground level also came under scrutiny as it was felt that while the political leadership was seen to be responsive to the aspirations of the people, the bureaucracy was letting the government down.

Legislators suggested the use of technology to make file movement and decision-making quicker besides making the entire process time-bound.

The top leadership of the SAD-BJP had to acknowledge the fact that infrastructure works had failed to live up to people’s expectations in many cases. Legislators claimed money was not reaching the beneficiaries in case of “shagun” scheme for newlywed brides.

Offering some solutions, SAD president Sukhbir Badal said Deputy Commissioners would be made more accountable. To tackle corruption, a list of officials with poor reputation would be prepared to deny them field postings. Also, officials having served for long periods at one place would be posted out.

The SAD president assured legislators of identifying talented individuals for important postings such as managing directors of various state government undertakings. Such people could be given fixed salary and performance-based incentives. IAS officers could also compete for the posts, he added.

Sukhbir said countering the drug menace was their top priority both at political and government level. The matter would be taken up with the Centre with border legislators pointing towards hindrances put forth by the Border Security Force in the fight against the menace.

The top leadership also decided to increase interaction with legislators. “We need to meet for a brainstorming session every three months,” Sukhbir said. This was necessary to ascertain the effectiveness of government policies as well judge the perception of the government in the eyes of the people, he said.

The SAD president also gave the legislators some homework — Give three suggestions each to improve governance as well as strengthen the party. The suggestions will have to be given in writing within one week in a sealed envelope.