NT Reporter
Panaji
The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has recommended that the Directorate of Panchayats direct all panchayats to strictly adhere to timelines prescribed under the Goa (Right of Citizens to Time-Bound Delivery of Public Services) Act, 2013.
The recommendation comes after there were considerable delays in the issuance of income certificates at the Chimbel panchayat.
The case arose after the commission took suo motu cognisance of a report published in a local daily on May 13. It observed that the issue was prima facie related to the violation of citizens’ rights.
GHRC issued notices to the Director of Panchayats and the Chimbel panchayat secretary seeking explanations.
In its inquiry report issued on June 17, the commission said the delays in issuing income certificates were contrary to the letter and spirit of the Time-Bound Delivery of Public Services Act.
An inquiry conducted by the BDO found that the sarpanch took considerable time to sign the certificates, contributing to the delay. The inquiry also found that the panchayat secretary had remained on leave from April 22 to May 8.
It said income certificates should preferably be issued on the same day that applications are received or within the statutory time limit prescribed under the law.
The Directorate of Panchayats has been directed to submit its comments and an action taken report to the commission by August 20.
