In a significant move to address long-standing land-related issues, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also oversees the revenue and land reforms portfolio, organized a comprehensive public dialogue in Laheriasarai, Darbhanga, on Saturday. The event witnessed a substantial turnout of citizens presenting various land-related grievances, which were attentively heard by the deputy CM.
Public Dialogues as a Grievance Redressal Mechanism
Sinha emphasized that these public dialogues have been systematically organized since he assumed charge as minister, aiming to directly tackle people's concerns. He remarked, "The ailment is old, but the treatment has begun." The initiative was launched in Patna on December 12 last year and has since expanded to multiple districts, including Lakhisarai, Muzaffarpur, Purnia, Saharsa, Bhagalpur, and Gaya, demonstrating a statewide outreach effort.
Enhanced Services Through CSC Centers
To streamline the complaint resolution process, Sinha highlighted the establishment of Common Service Centre (CSC) facilities in every circle office across Bihar. These centers are staffed with trained operators who provide online services to aggrieved individuals at fixed charges, ensuring accessibility and efficiency. A specific timeline has been implemented for the redressal of complaints, enhancing accountability and transparency in the system.
Clarifying Jurisdictional Roles
Addressing common misconceptions, Sinha clarified that land disputes primarily fall under the jurisdiction of the revenue department and the courts. Consequently, the police cannot intervene in construction activities or in restoring possession of property, a point aimed at reducing unnecessary legal complexities and ensuring proper channeling of grievances.
Restructuring Janata Darbar Sessions
In a notable administrative shift, Sinha announced that Janata Darbar sessions will now be conducted every Saturday at circle offices instead of police stations. Station House Officers (SHOs) will be required to attend these meetings at the circle offices, fostering better coordination between law enforcement and revenue authorities to address public issues more effectively.
This initiative underscores the Bihar government's commitment to resolving land reform challenges through direct public engagement and structured administrative reforms.
