In a strong move to enforce discipline, Rayagada Collector Ashutosh Kulkarni on Monday barred approximately a dozen government officials from entering a crucial meeting hall after they arrived late for the weekly joint public grievance redressal meeting.
Strict Action for Punctuality
The meeting, which was the first public grievance hearing of the new year, was scheduled to begin at 10 am. Collector Ashutosh Kulkarni reached the venue on time, and members of the public were already present, ready to voice their concerns. However, 12 officials arrived after the scheduled start time. Taking a firm stand, the collector immediately instructed security staff at the venue to prevent the latecomers from entering the hall.
Officials Wait Outside as Meeting Proceeds
Denied entry, the officials were forced to wait in a room adjacent to the meeting hall while the proceedings continued without them. One senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the incident: "I reached the meeting hall at 10.15 am. While I tried to enter the hall, a security staff requested me not to enter, as the collector had denied permission to those coming late to attend the public grievance meeting."
Public Applauds the Move for Discipline
Attendees at the meeting viewed the collector's action as a necessary step to reinforce punctuality and discipline in official engagements. One participant pointedly asked, "If government officials come late to a public meeting, what message does it send to people? Officials should maintain punctuality." The weekly joint public grievance redressal meeting is a vital forum for residents to submit complaints and petitions, with the aim of ensuring timely action by the concerned departments. Officials from various government offices typically attend to respond to public issues and coordinate follow-up measures.
No official statement has been issued regarding whether any further disciplinary action will be taken against the officials who arrived late. When contacted for comment, District Collector Ashutosh Kulkarni declined to elaborate on the matter.
This incident underscores a growing emphasis on accountability and respect for citizens' time within public administration in Odisha. By setting a clear example, the collector has highlighted that punctuality is not merely a formality but a fundamental aspect of responsible governance and public service.
