Winters in Kashmir bring many miseries to the local people. From pesky power cuts to bone chilling temperature, everything seems to go for a freeze during chilly period. In winters people often complain about the official truancy especially in the far flung areas of the valley. Many critics would say that the valley has never been in good books for sound work culture. As a result, a question mark is posed on the proper functioning of many offices during winters. The rural areas remain the worst hit in this respect where officials, particularly those hailing from urban or far off areas, are averse to attend the work. Although the government has introduced biometric attendance system at most of the offices but still in many offices, the official timings remain only on paper as the employees come and leave as per their convenience especially in winters. The work culture is worsened in situations like extreme weather vagaries. Bunking work is also a common phenomenon. Every winter, cases of officials remaining absent are reported when some higher officials happen to inspect the concerned offices. There are many more cases where the officials remain absent and go unpunished in the absence of the surprise inspections. This virus as it may be called considering its prevalence is making life of a common man miserable as he has to move from pillar to post in the government offices to get his job done. During winters, a casual visit to some of the government offices and one can find lethargy among the public servants. Even after arriving in the offices well after scheduled timing, the employees gather around the heating appliances available to warm themselves. They won’t move except for a cup of tea. And if somebody has the bad luck of having a case pending with such an office, he/she gets a cold shoulder. In winters, the functioning in some offices also seems to freeze. Many a time the issue seems too light for the concerned authorities to take serious note of. In order to ensure accountability in governance during winters, the government should take necessary steps regarding the same. Inspecting an odd office and announcing suspension of absent officials doesn’t rectify the system which is plagued with irresponsible work culture. Serious efforts should be made by the government to hold the public servants accountable. Taking strong action against the erring officials can also be used as a deterrent for the rest. The heads of respective departments have the responsibility of enforcing discipline among the subordinates by setting a personal example.
