Bihar’s corridors of power are opening up, thanks to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s no-nonsense directive that compels officials to meet the public without barriers. Tired of hearing stories of denied access and bureaucratic arrogance, Kumar has laid down the law: meet the people or face consequences.
The order, announced during a review meeting with top bureaucrats, requires every administrative head—from SPs to SDMs—to dedicate specific time slots for direct citizen interaction. No more ‘I’m busy’ excuses; fixed darbar hours are now etched in stone.
This isn’t just rhetoric. Kumar has warned of strict penalties, including transfers and departmental inquiries, for non-compliance. In a state where corruption and delays are synonymous with government offices, this could be a game-changer.
Take the case of Gaya, where locals have long battled unresponsive officials. Post-directive, the DM’s office has seen queues form early, with grievances addressed on the spot. Similar scenes are unfolding across blocks and thanas, empowering the aam aadmi.
Kumar’s track record on governance reforms lends credibility to this push. His earlier campaigns against dowry and alcohol have shown his resolve, and now he’s targeting the ‘babu’ culture that alienates citizens.
Yet, challenges loom. With Bihar’s vast rural expanse and understaffed offices, can this scale? Experts like Prof. Uma Shankar from Patna University argue for digital integration—online booking alongside physical meets—to maximize reach.
Opposition parties have welcomed the step but demanded transparency, like public logs of meetings. As one RJD leader put it, ‘Actions speak louder than orders.’
If successful, this could redefine public administration in Bihar, making officials servants of the people rather than rulers. For millions awaiting justice, hope is finally knocking at the door—or rather, the officials are now required to open it.
