Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is shaking up Bihar’s bureaucracy with a directive that demands officials prioritize public meetings. In a state notorious for administrative hurdles, this policy marks a decisive shift towards inclusive governance.
Detailed guidelines specify time allocations: two hours daily for top district officials, rotating schedules for others. Helpdesks and token systems will manage crowds, ensuring fairness.
Kumar’s frustration boiled over in recent meetings, where he lambasted officers for ‘hiding behind peons.’ His solution? Harsh punishments for violations, from warnings to demotions.
Across Bihar, from Siwan’s volatile streets to Begusarai’s industrial hubs, offices are adapting. A shopkeeper in Patna recounted meeting the municipal commissioner sans hassle, a first in years.
This builds on Kumar’s legacy of people-first policies, complementing initiatives like bicycle distribution for girls and helpline networks. It’s governance reimagined—proactive and approachable.
Potential pitfalls include overload during peak seasons, like monsoons when complaints flood in. Solutions being pilfered: zonal darbars and mobile units for far-flung areas.
Political ramifications are intriguing. With polls on horizon, this bolsters JD(U)’s pro-poor narrative against rivals. Independent observers praise the intent but urge data-driven evaluation.
Ultimately, success hinges on cultural change within ranks. If officers embrace this as duty rather than burden, Bihar could pioneer a model for democratic accessibility nationwide.