The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented a major administrative change in the investigation process for complaints related to revenue matters. The reports of cases previously investigated by Lekhpals (village accountants) will no longer be considered final. Under the new system, investigations will now be conducted at the Naib Tehsildar level, and the final decision will be made by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). This decision was taken by the Chief Minister's Office, considering the complaints that have been continuously arising during the 'Janta Darshan' program.
Naib Tehsildar replaces Lekhpal in responsibility
Until now, initial investigations into revenue-related complaints such as land disputes, income certificates, residence certificates, caste certificates, and inheritance matters were carried out by Lekhpals. However, the government was consistently receiving feedback that complainants were not satisfied with the Lekhpal-level investigations. There have also been allegations of lack of transparency and bias in these cases.
Considering these circumstances, the Chief Minister's Office has taken a major step to make the investigation process more transparent and effective. Now, the Lekhpal's report will only be considered a supporting document, while the entire responsibility of the investigation will rest with the Naib Tehsildar. The Naib Tehsildar will now prepare the report after a personal hearing of the complainant in each case.
Final decision at the SDM level
This system has been implemented to ensure transparency and accountability in the Revenue Department, so that the final decision on any complaint will now be made by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) S.P. Goyal has issued clear instructions to all Divisional Commissioners and District Magistrates that no officer below the Naib Tehsildar will now investigate revenue matters.
The government believes that this will increase transparency in the disposal of complaints and curb corruption. At the same time, the investigation and decision-making process at a higher level will enable the public to get more reliable and impartial solutions.
Administration becomes active
This decision was taken by the Chief Minister's Office based on the complaints continuously received in the 'Janta Darshan'. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has made it clear that now only paperwork will not suffice, but the hearing of the complainant will be mandatory. The government's aim is to ensure that the common people get justice and that the scope for corruption in revenue-related matters is completely eliminated.
This decision reflects the state administration's proactiveness in taking the problems of the common people seriously and moving towards a quick and effective solution. The new system will not only strengthen the investigation process but will also increase people's trust in the governance system.
