The move to curb malpractices in local bodies by combining 26 software and forming a unified system called K-Smart is appreciable. The new system will begin in January on a test basis.

K-Smart was developed after complaints arose of misusing the officials’ passwords to obtain building permits and occupancy in Kozhikode and some other areas. The incident led to investigations into the malpractices and prompted the then Minister, MV Govindan, to order new software to avoid incidents such as this.

The software is developed by Information Kerala Mission (IKM). The authorities must make sure that the software developed by IKM will not be misused in the future. The issues in the software used for ration and that used at the registration department have made life difficult for the common people.

There is already a criticism that IKM, which is developing the software to be used in local bodies, is facing the problem of understaffing technical experts. If it is true then the first step is to rectify that issue.

IKM must not be left to itself to test if the software is foolproof. Professional companies can be hired by the government to check if IKM’s software is faultless. Never think that it is wrong or costly to check this. The private sector is handling ten times more work than that done in the government’s Information Mission. There is no wrong in allowing a private company to examine any issue with the software, that will be used by 20 lakh people. However, there must transparency.

In addition, the developers have designed the software in a way that it can function both as a web portal, and the K-Smart mobile app.

In the first phase, services like file tracking, trade license, complaint settlement, and redressal of complaints are provided. The software uses the retina of the eyes as password in computers, which makes it very tough for professional hackers to open. The face recognition used in the software makes it very tough for hackers to enter the computer.

One of the biggest benefits of face recognition is that the officers cannot skip their responsibility. Corruption mostly takes place when the person who needs favours and his dealer enter an office. The new system can be considered a success only if these practices are stopped.