Mamata launches booklet detailing speedy public service

In a bid to strengthen public service delivery mechanism in the state, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday launched the 'Somayer Sathi' service booklet that states the stipulated period within which a service has to be made available to citizens.

Launched under the West Bengal Right to Public Services Act, 2013, the booklet unveiled in English would be available in Bengali subsequently.

"It gives information on how to avail services like ration card, medical facilities, certificates like birth and death, and applying for municipal licences...within a specified time," said Banerjee here.

The legislation provides that citizens applying for any services from any department or a local body under the state government would get an application number.

The citizen can track the status of the application through the application number online or other avenues.

A time frame would be imposed for delivery of service, and it would be binding on the state to provide the services within the specified schedule.

For example, the maximum duration to procure a duplicate marksheet, admit card or certificate is 15 days whereas new ration cards should be issued within a month, official sources said.

The government service providers could be fined for failing to meet the deadline.

The scheme would address the growing demand of citizens for improving public service and reduce corruption, said the sources.

According to the legislation, the state government would appoint a commission by issuing a notification. The West Bengal Right to Public Service Commission would go through the complaints of people not receiving the services in time.

"You will get all services within the time and if someone denies you the facility then you can complain. If the allegations hold true then the person will be fined. The services will not be denied due to any political or personal reason," said Banerjee.