New Delhi:
The Citizens' Charter has its fair share of sceptics in the national capital. Officially launched on Wednesday, the Charter which promises speedier birth and death certificates, among other things, to Delhi's citizens. But so far Delhiites are adopting a wait and see attitude, as to whether the government agencies can make good on their promises.
Vijender who was lined up outside the MCD office was cautiously optimistic. ''One can only hope... all the ordinary person can do is hope. They have promised better service but let's see.''
The Citizens' Charter promises that it will take:
- 1 day to renew a permanent driving licence.
- 45 days for a new ration card.
- 7 working days to get birth and death certificates.
The failure to meet deadlines will mean a penalty that can range from Rs 10 to Rs 200 rupees a day. The money will be deducted from the defaulting official.
The Delhi government has promised it will soon put more services under the charter. Says Sheila Dikshit, Delhi's Chief Minister, ''Another 40 services are going to be included in the Charter in the next 10 days."
The citizen's charter will come as a new lease of life for those who have been running from pillar to post to get the necessary documents. But there are those who are still sceptical. Says Rahul, a resident of Burari, I have been running from pillar to post for the past 11 months for one form after another...only now have I got the birth certificate (for my daughter)." Rahul is doubtful things will change anytime soon.
According to officials while the time allotted for the delivery of services remains the same, with the levying of a penalty, accountability has now been set. There will little excuse for tardiness on the part of government officials now.