Will Revenue Officers Hold Mandatory Public Hearings Twice a Week Starting January 19?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking move, Bihar's Department of Revenue and Land Reforms mandates public hearings every Monday and Friday, effective January 19, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance citizen engagement, accountability, and responsiveness in revenue administration, making governance more transparent and efficient for the people.
Key Takeaways
- Public Hearings: Revenue officers will hold hearings on Mondays and Fridays.
- Effective Date: The initiative starts on January 19, 2026.
- Citizen Engagement: Aims to enhance transparency and accountability.
- Digital Record-Keeping: Complaints will be managed digitally for better tracking.
- Leadership Commitment: Supported by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's vision for governance.
Patna, Jan 17 (NationPress) In a significant move to enhance the people-friendly nature of revenue administration, the Department of Revenue and Land Reforms has mandated that all revenue officers in Bihar must be present at their offices on two designated working days each week—Monday and Friday—to address public concerns.
This new directive will commence on January 19, 2026.
Issued by C.K. Anil, the Principal Secretary of the Department, this initiative falls under the Seven Resolves-3 (2025–2030) program spearheaded by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
The aim is to foster a governance model that is more citizen-centric, transparent, and responsive, leveraging innovative administrative strategies.
This initiative follows the launch of the Land Reforms Public Welfare Dialogue by Vijay Kumar Sinha, the Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Revenue and Land Reforms.
Initially started in Patna, the program has since extended to Lakhisarai, Muzaffarpur, Saharsa, Purnea, and Bhagalpur, allowing citizens to voice their grievances regarding land and revenue issues directly.
Feedback from these discussions underscored the necessity for increased accountability and empathy within revenue administration.
The new guidelines mandate that all staff exhibit respectful and courteous behavior towards citizens in every revenue office.
Furthermore, to promote transparency and timely responses, it is now compulsory to maintain a digital record of all complaints received from the public.
This system will facilitate effective grievance monitoring and ensure accountability at all levels.
The directive also empowers Divisional Commissioners and District Magistrates to bolster revenue administration in their respective areas.
They are tasked with alleviating the difficulties faced by citizens in revenue processes and enhancing their overall quality of life.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha emphasized that the essence of revenue administration extends beyond merely enforcing rules.
“Our goal is to provide prompt, transparent, and respectful solutions to the challenges faced by everyday citizens. The implementation of mandatory public hearings on Mondays and Fridays, coupled with a digital grievance management system and accessible citizen services, will significantly enhance accountability,” he stated.
He further remarked that under the guidance of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and as part of the Seven Resolves-3 initiative, the government is dedicated to realizing the vision of ‘Respect for All – Ease of Living’, ensuring timely delivery of revenue services and bolstering public trust in the administration.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significant impact of this initiative on Bihar's governance. By mandating public hearings and promoting transparency, the government is not only addressing citizen grievances but also fostering trust in public institutions. This approach aligns with national trends towards more participatory governance, reflecting a shift towards accountability and respect for citizen rights.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the mandatory public hearings start?
The mandatory public hearings will begin on January 19, 2026.
Which days will the public hearings take place?
The public hearings will take place every Monday and Friday.
Who issued the directive for mandatory public hearings?
The directive was issued by C.K. Anil, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Revenue and Land Reforms.
What is the goal of this initiative?
The initiative aims to make governance more citizen-centric, transparent, and responsive to public concerns.
How will complaints be managed?
All complaints will be digitally recorded to ensure transparency and timely resolution.
