Resistance to change: Village offices remain unwilling to adapt

It is disconcerting to find that despite the introduction of the online system, things remain the same in many village offices. Vigilance officials conducted inspections at 86 selected village offices in the state since last Monday, which brought to light the apathetic approach to providing services to the people along with many serious irregularities. E-District online system has been widened to provide the required services to the people without any delay. But many village offices are still reluctant to embrace the new change. Many people are reluctant to give up the old habit of leaving applications on the table. Applicants are sent back with an excuse when they come and inquire in person. Nor is the practice of handing over efficiency. There are people who rely on new e-payment systems to buy bribes. When that happens, there is no fear of being caught by the vigilance with evidence.

Most of the services are being made available online to avoid people having to visit village offices in person to seek services. This system is working well in many village offices. But applications are left on the table in offices with staff reluctant to embrace change. Now the bride and groom do not have to be present in person even for the marriage registration certificate. If all the documents are submitted online, the certificate will be received without any delay. Similarly, the advantage of e-portal system is that documents like Dependency Certificate, Income Certificate, Creamer Certificate, Tenure Certificate etc. will be issued immediately upon application. The information coming out in the vigilance inspection is that an attempt is being made to subvert this system which is very beneficial to the people.

It is no secret that some of the officials are still not getting used to the new method. But these techniques can be mastered after a few days of practice. Apart from that, it is necessary to find and give the necessary training to the officials who will carry out the arrangement to restore the people. People have to approach village offices for many services including land conversion. Many land related services are also available from here. There are about two dozen other services.

When the e-portal system was introduced, the government's assurance was that no one would have to visit the offices any more and everything would be available online. But it cannot be said that there has been a complete change in the situation of still having to go to the relevant offices after submitting the application. If the efficiency of the e-portal system can be increased, the present complaints will be solved to some extent. With proper inspection and supervision, lapses can be detected and remedial action taken. It is possible if the government thinks to bring the officers on the right track who are adamant that we will not change under any circumstances.