Also asked to prioritize grievances, invite MLA’s to all functions
WAJAHAT SHABIR
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has issued a new directive emphasizing priority and protocol in attending to elected representatives across government departments.
The General Administration Department (GAD) released Circular No. 05-JK(GAD) of 2025, underscoring the critical role of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in grassroots governance and mandating all officials to extend due cooperation.
The circular, signed by Commissioner/Secretary M. Raju (IAS), states that all government officers and officials must promptly address concerns and grievances raised by elected representatives. Additionally, MLAs must be invited to all official functions and meetings within their jurisdiction, including visits by dignitaries.
The directive further instructs that elected representatives be accorded due respect and their requests be processed on a priority basis. Officials failing to adhere to the protocol may face disciplinary action. The order has been circulated to all Financial Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Heads of Departments, and other key officials for immediate compliance.
The elected Members of the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir are expected to play a crucial role in the process of governance at the grassroots level, and it therefore becomes imperative that all Government Departments, Officers, and officials extend due cooperation and accord priority to issues highlighted/flagged by these public representatives.
It is accordingly enjoined upon all officers/officials working in various Government Departments of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir that elected representatives shall be attended to on priority in public offices and proper protocol, as per established government norms and guidelines, shall be adhered to in all such interactions.
Communications, requests, and grievances raised by elected representatives shall be acknowledged and processed on priority, and Government Officers/Officials shall deal with elected representatives in a professional and respectful manner.
It shall also be ensured that the elected representatives are invited to all official functions and meetings organized in their jurisdiction as well as in the event of an official visit of any dignitary in their jurisdiction.These instructions are brought to the notice of all concerned for immediate and strict compliance
