The proactive approach being adopted by the administration in Uttarakhand, particularly Dehradun, is laudable in that it is bringing to light the widespread and chronic neglect of duties by staff at the ground level. Absence of regulatory functioning at this level is one of the major discrepancies that is being held responsible for the Kolkata RG Kar Hospital tragedy. The revelations of neglect that have emerged in Doon, for instance, indicate that similar failures are just waiting to happen at any time if the situation continues. If scratching the surface reveals so much, what must be lying deep underneath?
Already major discrepancies have been found in the garbage disposal system, with much less being done on the ground than shown on paper. Just an initial effort to verify the credentials of vendors on a couple of streets, and the drivers of school vans, has revealed the huge gaps that exist in the information available. The cynical might say that these actions are mere reminders to all concerned that there is a new boss in town and where the ‘salaams’ are to be directed. This has been a traditional practice in the past. However, the test of the intent will become known if this and other initiatives are persisted with and a new normal comes into being of well-administered cities and districts.
It will also help if the systems are simplified. Often, citizens are unable to keep up with regulations because of the complexity and the amount of time required. The introduction of Information Technology in various ways has helped but complications still exist. Officialdom should be available at all levels to solve these effectively. The intent should be to help, not hinder.
It is good that Uttarakhand has arrived at this evolutionary stage to be facing such problems. Policy making at the government level should ensure that the state enters the next level where functionality of services is guaranteed and provided as a right and not a favour. There are much bigger challenges ahead and, if these are to be effectively met, the overall condition of governance should become much more effective. Just an improvement in the SGDP is not the only indicator of a developing state – the services must match if the growth is to be kept sustainable.
