Image Credits : Reuters
In a high-level briefing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with top government secretaries to discuss ongoing administrative and governance issues. The meeting underscored mounting concerns among civil servants about the effectiveness of current instructions and the overarching atmosphere of fear within the bureaucracy.
During the briefing, secretaries provided an update on various administrative initiatives and outlined key challenges facing their departments. However, the discussion highlighted a prevailing sentiment among civil servants that recent directives and reforms have been inadequate in addressing deeper systemic issues. Bureaucrats expressed concerns that the existing instructions are insufficient for resolving the underlying problems plaguing the civil service.
Civil servants have raised alarms about what they describe as a pervasive atmosphere of “CIAA terror,” referring to the influence of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) on their daily operations. Many have reported feeling pressured by the commission’s scrutiny, which they believe is stifling their ability to perform their duties effectively and impeding administrative efficiency.
In response to these concerns, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing bureaucratic inefficiencies and restoring confidence within the civil service. He acknowledged the need for reforms that go beyond superficial changes and address the root causes of discontent among civil servants.
The meeting also focused on exploring ways to improve communication and collaboration between various government departments and agencies. The Prime Minister urged secretaries to foster a more transparent and supportive environment, which he believes is essential for enhancing the overall functionality of the bureaucracy.
Officials discussed potential measures to alleviate the pressures on civil servants, including revising oversight practices and enhancing support mechanisms for employees. The Prime Minister stressed that creating a work environment free from undue fear and intimidation is critical for achieving effective governance and service delivery.
The Prime Minister announced the formation of a special task force tasked with reviewing the current administrative framework and recommending targeted reforms. This task force will include representatives from various sectors, including civil service experts, legal advisors, and former bureaucrats, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of existing practices. The goal is to develop actionable recommendations that address the concerns of civil servants and improve the overall efficiency of government operations.
As the government moves forward with its reform agenda, the focus will be on implementing changes that not only address the immediate challenges but also foster a more resilient and efficient bureaucratic system. The outcome of these efforts will be closely watched by both civil servants and the public, as they will likely have significant implications for the effectiveness of governance in Nepal.