Improve public service, ensure transparency: BJP MLA to revenue dept

Jammu, Apr 24: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Bishnah, Dr Rajeev Bhagat on Thursday convened a high-level meeting with revenue officials, addressing critical shortcomings within the department. The meeting, held at his office chamber, focused on systemic issues causing hardship to citizens.
Dr Bhagat strongly criticised the persistent delays in issuing essential certificates, including domicile, category, character, and agriculture certificates. He reminded officials of the Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA) mandates and demanded strict adherence to prescribed timelines. “Citizens are entitled to timely services,” Dr Bhagat asserted, “and delays are unacceptable.”
The MLA also addressed the slow pace of providing online revenue extracts and land records. Despite the availability of online platforms, services like Jamabandi and Khasra Girdwari are significantly delayed. Dr Bhagat instructed officers to prioritise online service delivery within the PSGA framework.
A key concern was the flawed practice of conducting Harvest Inspections (Girdwari). Dr Bhagat denounced the practice of Patwaries completing Girdwari from their offices instead of conducting mandatory field inspections. “This leads to inaccurate records and disputes among landowners. Every Patwari will now be held accountable for conducting on-the-spot inspections,” he declared.
The attestation of mutations also came under scrutiny. Dr Bhagat stressed the importance of fair hearings for all stakeholders and mandated on-site attestations to ensure transparency and prevent delays. He further expressed concern over the non-incorporation of attested mutations into revenue records, calling the practice “unlawful” and demanding immediate action.
Regarding land acquisition, the MLA urged the Collector to meticulously review records, particularly the LB-10 forms, to prevent discrepancies. He cited past issues with Ring Road acquisitions and stressed adherence to the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
Dr Bhagat also highlighted the lack of regular inspections of revenue records by supervisory officers, which he believes has enabled manipulation of records. He called for strict adherence to the inspection schedule outlined in the Land Revenue Act.
The MLA directed the swift disposal of pending partition cases and reiterated his commitment to eradicating corruption within the department. He also called for the immediate distribution of Property Cards under the SVAMITVA scheme.