Odisha Chief Minister Declares Grievance Redressal as Government's Foremost Priority
In a significant move to enhance public administration, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reaffirmed that grievance hearing remains the top priority for the Odisha government. Speaking to media representatives after a comprehensive grievance hearing program in Bhubaneswar on Monday, the CM detailed the administration's intensified focus on resolving citizen complaints through systematic field visits and regular hearings.
15-Point Directives Emphasize People-Oriented Governance
Among the 15-point directives issued on New Year's Day to make governance more people-centric, maximum emphasis has been placed on grievance redressal. Chief Minister Majhi stated, "Officials from the secretariat down to block and tehsil levels have been instructed to resolve people's complaints through proactive field visits. The regular grievance hearings at the state level are now yielding positive results at the district level as well."
He further highlighted that collectors and Superintendents of Police (SPs) are now conducting hearings routinely, transforming grievance redressal into a standard administrative practice across Odisha. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the government and citizens, ensuring timely and effective solutions to public issues.
Impressive Disposal Rate of 94% in Grievance Resolution
Monday's event marked the CM's 17th round of grievance hearing, showcasing the government's sustained commitment. According to official data, the Chief Minister's Grievance Cell has received a total of 14,054 petitions over the last 16 rounds. Of these, an impressive 13,169 cases have been resolved, achieving a disposal rate of 94%. The remaining cases are currently under active process, with officials working diligently to address them.
Ministers and Senior Officials Join Hands in Public Service
The grievance hearing program saw active participation from five ministers and senior officials, underscoring a collective effort to improve governance. As per established practice, CM Majhi first met with differently-abled persons outside the cell, attentively listening to their problems and directing officials to take immediate action.
Among the 32 disabled complainants, he sanctioned medical assistance of Rs 1 lakh to a man from Bhadrak district suffering from a serious illness, and Rs 1.5 lakh to a native of Jajpur district. He also instructed relevant departments to act promptly on other applications seeking medical support, demonstrating a compassionate approach to public welfare.
Personalized Attention and Swift Resolution for Citizens
In a notable instance, the CM directed officials to provide travel expenses along with medical facilities to a woman from Patnagarh who sought treatment for kidney and neurological ailments. Majhi personally interacted with all disabled and seriously ill complainants, hearing their grievances with empathy and ordering swift resolutions to alleviate their hardships.
Later, he proceeded to address petitions from other registered complainants inside the cell, ensuring that every voice was heard and acted upon. This hands-on approach reflects the government's dedication to making governance more accessible and responsive to the needs of Odisha's residents.
The ongoing efforts highlight a transformative shift in administrative practices, with grievance redressal becoming a cornerstone of public service in the state. As CM Majhi continues to lead these initiatives, Odisha sets a benchmark for effective and people-oriented governance.
