Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 7 Jul: Taking cognisance of the administrative strain caused by the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, Uttarakhand’s Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) Radha Raturi has ordered the deferment of hearings related to second appeals and complaints involving the Police Department and Nagar Nigam in Haridwar. This decision follows the recognition of increased responsibilities being shouldered by officials from these departments during the annual religious pilgrimage.
The CIC has further clarified that departments in Haridwar whose officials are engaged in Kanwar Yatra duties and have hearings scheduled during this period may avail hybrid modes of appearance, such as video conferencing or other online platforms, to present their case before the Commission. It was also emphasised that citizens and officials either residing in Haridwar or travelling through the district from other parts of Uttarakhand are likewise encouraged to utilise hybrid facilities for participation throughout the Kanwar Yatra period.
In cases where an official is unable to join even through hybrid mode due to operational duties linked to the Yatra, the Commission has allowed them to send a formal email request to secy-uic@gov.in for rescheduling the hearing. In such instances, a new date will be fixed post conclusion of the Yatra.
It has been further advised that, for additional guidance, parties may contact the staff of the respective courts associated with the State Information Commission. This administrative accommodation has been introduced to ease procedural burdens on officers deployed on special duty during the Kanwar pilgrimage and to ensure continued access to information hearings without compromising official commitments.
The statement issued by the state information commission states that for further assistance, individuals may contact Court 1, Chief Information Commissioner Radha Raturi at 9410700474; Court 2, State Information Commissioner Devendra Kumar Arya at 9410700471; Court 3, State Information Commissioner Yogesh Bhatt at 9410700343; Court 4, State Information Commissioner Dalip Singh Kunwar at 9410700544; and Court 5, State Information Commissioner Kushla Nand at 9410700352. This administrative flexibility has been introduced to ensure uninterrupted access to information hearings while easing procedural challenges for officials deployed on Kanwar Yatra duty.
