MLA’s asks speakers to intervene, act against such officers
WAJAHAT SHABIR
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday witnessed a detailed discussion on accountability and communication gaps between legislators and the administration, as several MLAs raised concerns over the lack of timely responses to their official communications.
Raising the issue, the MLA from Kulgam M.Y Tarigami said that the credibility of the House depends on mutual accountability and respect between the executive and the elected representatives. “While the Chief Minister’s Office has been responsive, many officers fail to acknowledge or reply to letters and messages sent by legislators. This is not criticism but a request that replies must be ensured so that our communication chain remains credible,” he said.
Responding to the concern, Minister Sakina Itoo said her office ensures that all representations—whether received through PSOs, WhatsApp, post, or in person—are acknowledged and acted upon. “We make it a point to respond to every letter or message received, except in matters related to transfers,” she said, describing her approach as one based on prudence and fairness.
Adding to the discussion, a BJP MLA Pawan Gupta expressed strong discontent over what he termed “complete non-responsiveness” from certain district officials. “I have written 27 letters to the Deputy Commissioner, but not a single one has been replied to,” he said, citing a General Administration Department (GAD) circular that mandates timely replies to official correspondence. The MLA urged the Speaker to take action against officers who ignore communications from elected members, saying such negligence undermines accountability.
Adding that he said, “They receive a response from the Office of Chief Minister, though it is a different matter whether the work is done or not”.
Joining the debate, MLA from Handwara, Sajad Lone, questioned the effectiveness of the current administrative system, saying legislators have little idea how their letters are processed or whether any action follows. “If an application from an MLA does not receive a reply, then what is the role of a legislator in such a system?” he asked.
Adding that Sajad Lone said actions shall be taken against such officials as they have just passed exams while we have been given the mandate.
Meanwhile, MLA from Pampore Hasnain Masoodi cautioned that the persistence of such non-responsive practices could damage the credibility of democratic institutions, including Parliament itself. “Initially, there is some acknowledgment, but later there is no update on what action has been taken. If this continues, it will weaken institutions and public confidence,” he warned, urging the government to ensure time-bound responses to all communications from legislators.
He also cited the example of parliament, where the work is done professionally.
