Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Feb 3: K N Phanindra, Karnataka Upalokayukta, conducted a grievance meeting in Udupi district on Saturday February 3 at the district commissioner's office in Manipal.
Inaugurating the programme, Phanindra said, “Since taking charge as the Upalokayukta, I have learned that the general public lacks knowledge about the workings and areas covered under the Lokayukta's jurisdiction. With the purpose of enlightening citizens, we have organized such grievance meetings at the district level. The Constitution has provided equal opportunities to everyone, offering protection to an individual's physical and dignitary rights from foetus to birth. Aimed at providing opportunities for a respectable living, a series of property rights have also been provided. Today, the courts are overwhelmed with numerous cases. To reduce this caseload, alternative methods are being formulated. Lokayukta serves as a watchdog for the legislative and executive. Delays occur only due to malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance. There are less than 1% of public servants amongst the entire country's population. In a sacred place like this, if district commissioners, CEOs, and Police Superintendents train officers well, many problems can be solved at the district level.”
In her introductory speech, Dr K Vidyakumari, the deputy commissioner said, “Officials should take complaints and grievances of their respective departments positively. Grievances should be redressed expeditiously. The issues raised today should be settled in the next couple of days with legal resolutions. Lokayukta is an organization that works honestly, focusing on social justice and moral values. Officials should not take grievances personally and should handle them legally. The public should feel free to express their grievances.”
A total of 123 cases were received from the general public concerning various governmental departments, and actions were initiated. ADC Mamatadevi welcomed the gathering. Dr Arun K, police superintendent; Prathik Bayal, CEO zilla Panchayat; MV Channakeshava Reddy, deputy commissioner Lokayukta; Rangegowda, deputy commissioner, CA Simon, Lokayukta SP Mangaluru division; Kiran Patil, personal secretary Upalokayukta; Sharmila S, senior civil judge; Ganapathi, DCF Kundapur; and Shivaram Babu, DCF Karkala were present.