Odisha Govt Sets Up Cells for MPs, MLAs’ Grievances

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced a dedicated initiative to address complaints and recommendations from Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). The move involves setting up special cells within government departments to ensure timely responses and adherence to protocols outlined in Book Circular-47, which was reportedly overlooked during the previous administration.

An official directive issued by Parliamentary Affairs Secretary Surendra Kumar mandates all departmental secretaries to establish these cells. The cells will be staffed by designated nodal and dealing officers responsible for addressing issues raised by MPs and MLAs.

To streamline the process, district and block-level offices must submit monthly action-taken reports on complaints by the 10th of each month. These reports will then be consolidated and forwarded to the General Administration Department by the 15th. The Chief Secretary will review the consolidated reports during monthly meetings scheduled for the 20th.

Departments are also required to submit separate reports detailing responses to queries from MPs and MLAs. The directive warns that non-compliance with Book Circular-47 could result in disciplinary action against officials, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering elected representatives and ensuring accountability.

This renewed focus aims to enhance the functioning of elected representatives and marks a shift in governance dynamics, addressing grievances that reportedly went unheeded under the previous government.