THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in the Assembly that strict action will be taken against government officials who do not treat the public with respect. Failure to do so will be considered serious misconduct and breach of discipline. The superiors have been directed to take strict action against the concerned officials if a complaint is received. The Right to Service Act has been implemented by setting limits on the availability of services in government offices that are in direct contact with the public. There is a provision in the secretariat manual and the Manual of Office Procedure that the mail should be inspected within five days of receipt.

Sexual abuse allegation will be investigated

The Chief Minister, in reply to PV Anvar's question, said that an investigation is underway to find out the credibility of whether the revelation made by a 14-year-old girl that she and other girls in the school were abused. A complaint has been received requesting that legal action should be taken by adding sections under the POCSO Act against those who spread such fake news using the girl. Even if the victim reveals that she was sexually assaulted, failure to report it to the police is an offense under the POCSO Act.