Govt to improve scheme to minimize delays in future
*Magisterial probe in encounter alright, prompt inquiry needed
Sanjeev Pargal
JAMMU, Apr 6: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said today that certain shortcomings have come to light during implementation of Rehabilitation Assistance Schemes (RAS) and called for reforms in the Scheme to address existing gaps for timely completion of the appointment process.
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He made these remarks while addressing the gathering after distribution of compassionate appointment letters to 124 beneficiaries of Jammu division under RAS, SRO-43 and SRO-94 at a function here today. A similar function is scheduled to be held in Srinagar in next couple of days.
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While replying to a private member’s bill tabled in the Legislative Assembly by BJP MLA from Udhampur West Pawan Gupta, the Chief Minister had assured the member that the Government is aware of certain shortcomings in the RAS which replaced SRO-43 and will try to overcome them. The member had withdrawn the bill on assurance of the Chief Minister.
Calling for expediting the process and to see what further reforms are needed in the RAS to address existing gaps and ensure timely completion of the appointment process, Omar acknowledged the hardships faced by the beneficiaries and the delays in the process.
He assured that the Government is committed to refining the scheme to minimize delays in future and said there should be no delay in making the appointments.
“The appointments meant to be made in previous years are delivered much later. This shouldn’t happen. We will identify the gaps and bring necessary improvements,” Omar said.
“The intent behind revising SRO-43 was to expedite appointments, but certain shortcomings have come to light during its implementation. We are aware of the difficulties the victims have gone through and also that the process took longer than it should have,” Omar said, adding there is a need to make further changes in the scheme so that appointments are completed swiftly and efficiently.
“Getting a Government job is often the happiest day in one’s life, but in your case, it comes after losing a loved one. The trauma you endure is far greater than any examination. In many ways, it is more difficult than clearing even the toughest competitive exams,” he said, addressing the appointees.
He said he chose to personally hand over the appointment letters to convey the Government’s empathy and solidarity with the affected families. “We could have sent these orders to your homes, but I wanted to be here to assure you that the Government stands with you in this difficult time,” he added.
The Chief Minister said that while Government employment is usually a moment of joy, such appointments under RAS come after an irreplaceable personal loss.
Reaffirming Government support, he said, “My colleagues and I are always available. If you face any difficulty, do not hesitate to reach out. We will do our best to assist you.”
Later, speaking briefly to reporters after the function, Omar justified the probe ordered by the Lieutenant Governor into recent Ganderbal encounter, stating that a prompt inquiry was needed.
“I will not get into the debate over whether there should be a judicial probe or a magisterial probe,” he said and added that ordering a judicial inquiry often takes considerable time due to procedural delays.
“The issue with a judicial inquiry is that it takes a lot of time. First of all, sitting judges are not easily available nowadays, and the Supreme Court has also placed considerable restrictions on such appointments. Even bringing in a retired judge is not that easy,” he said.
However, he stressed that the inquiry should be conducted without wasting time.
“It should be initiated immediately, and if there is truth in the matter, it should be brought before the public,” the Chief Minister said.
He said the approach adopted by the Lieutenant Governor is right.
“Let the magisterial inquiry do its work, and whatever the truth is, it will come out before the people,” he added.
In response to a question on West Asia war, Omar took note of remarks made by the President of the United States (Donald Trump) and questioned the tone of his public communication.
“The kind of language used by the US President and his office: does it suit him or his office? Is such rhetoric appropriate for someone in that position? The kind of words being used are such that even you and I cannot repeat them without censoring them in a broadcast,” he said.
Omar stressed that the dignity of the office must be maintained.
“We are all concerned about prolonged conflict,” he said, adding: “The longer it continues, the more difficult it will become for all of us”.
He reiterated the need for peace and hoped that a ceasefire is announced as soon as possible, so that the war comes to an end, and the current situation stabilises and improves.”
Speaking at RAS function, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said that while no compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, such appointments aim to provide emotional support and immediate relief to the affected families.
Commissioner Secretary, General Administration Department M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, senior officers, appointees and their family members were present on the occasion.
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