AAP MLA to launch website to manage public utility complaints

Following the launch the first major anti-corruption measure with the setting up of a citizen helpline to ‘sting’ corrupt officials, an Aam Admi Party MLA and minister in Delhi Cabinet Somnath Bharti is readying a second initiative in his constituency to tackle corruption – an online platform where citizens can register complaints concerning public utilities such as water, electricity and identify the official concerned. Law Minister Somnath Bharti, speaking to Firstpost about the significance of such a website, said, “Majority of Delhi’s citizens don’t know who to call when say, for instance, a water pipe leaks. They don’t know whom to contact for basic amenities, for redressal of their day-to-day problems. It is this lack of information that perpetuates corruption. And for every small problem, citizens have to run to their MLA or his PA who then promises to get the job done for a price.” [caption id=“attachment_1332573” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal during his oat taking ceremony. AFP[/caption] Explaining the online system that is being built will manage citizen complaints, Bharti says, “It is an online facility, where you will start by filling in your name, address and your phone number. You then select the department, say water, and then click on the type of problem you are facing. The combination of the area, the department and the type of problem will throw up the relevant officer and his number.” The minister adds, “You will have the option to fill in the subject, details of the problem and attach a photograph, if available. Once you submit the complaint, SMSes will be sent out – one to the officer concerned, one to my office and one to the user. This is called transparency. This is how corruption will be solved.” The online platform, says Bharti, will be launched in the next 10-15 days. If the response to the anti-corruption helpline, which got close to 4000 calls on the first day is anything to go by, the online complaint management system is likely see phones of public utility staff flooded with complaints. While it all does seem to be too good to be true, there is no denying that AAP and its unorthodox style of governance is shaking up system and making a lot of people in government very uncomfortable.