Shimla DC warns of stern action on complaints against field staff

Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap on Sunday said stern action will be initiated against field staff on complaints filed against them at the DC office, particularly complaints regarding revenue-related work, including demarcation, and about staffers not working.

The DC, while chairing a meeting of Patwaris and Kanungos, said a large number of people from both urban and rural Shimla were visiting the DC office daily regarding revenue-related issues. He said he had directed the Shimla (Urban) and (Rural) SDMs to clear all ‘files’ within a week.

“The state government has already taken several steps to expedite work in the Revenue Department, and it is the duty of all officers to ensure compliance,” he added.

The DC instructed the officials to ensure that summons processes for all demarcation cases was completed within the next seven days.

“Public image of the Revenue Department is very poor, and people’s anger is rising due to delays and failure in resolving issues on time. Everyone must work together to improve this image. The behaviour of field staff is also not satisfactory” Kashyap said.

“Debris generated in four-lane construction is being illegally dumped, yet not a single Patwari has reported it. Illegal dumping is posing a threat to the houses of area residents,” the DC added, instructing all Patwaris to check the appointment letters of Lambardars in their respective areas. If anyone did not have a valid appointment letter, the Patwari must inform the DC office, Kashyap added, directing Patwaris to personally verify every beneficiary receiving financial assistance through the Revenue Department.

“Every Patwari must hold a meeting with their Lambardar and the local SHO or Station In-charge within a month to discuss awareness against drugs. Patwaris will play an important role in implementing the state government’s Drug-Free Himachal campaign at the grass-roots levels,” he said.