The Assam Cabinet has given the green light to the Assam Right to Public Services (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and appeal mechanisms for public services.
This bill will be presented during the Autumn session of the Assam Legislative Assembly. A key provision of the amendment is the establishment of the Assam State Commission for Right to Public Services.
The Commission will be headed by a Chief Commissioner and will include two Commissioners. These appointments will be made by the Governor based on recommendations from a committee comprising the Chief Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, and a Cabinet Minister nominated by the Chief Minister.
Functioning as a quasi-judicial body, the Commission will have the authority to recommend disciplinary action against Designated Public Servants who repeatedly fail to deliver notified services.
CM Himanta previously stated that the RTPS Commission would empower the public to access services that have not been completed within the designated timeframe set by the State Government.
“If a work has not been completed within the stipulated time, the public can approach the RTPS Commission. The Commission will issue notices to government officials seeking an explanation. If it is found that the delay is due to sheer laziness, the responsible individual will face a fine of Rs 100 per day,” explained CM Himanta.
The introduction of this bill is expected to significantly improve accountability and service delivery within the public sector.
