From now onwards, there is no chance for government officers to woo public representatives, by offering costly gifts in public functions. Presenting shawls, costly gifts, mementos, turbans (peta) by spending public money has been restricted. 

The State government has issued a circular to all government departments not to give expensive gifts to elected representatives. A circular dated December 19 signed by Syed Zameer Pasha, secretary of Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms has opined that presenting gifts by spending public money is unacceptable.

“Public programmes are conducted with the public money. The department has observed that many officers presenting costly gifts to elected representatives. Here onwards the officers should stop such practice. However, guests can be honoured and can be presented with bouquets as token of gratitude,” the circular said.

However, the circular does not suggest price limit for flower bouquets!

Janata Darshan
Pasha said that the department has also asked deputy commissioners of all districts to hold Janata Darshans on all Saturdays (except on holidays) along with district-level officers. A circular has been issued in this regard and the deputy commissioner should take steps for conducting Janata Darshans effectively.

DCs should direct officers to address problems faced by the common public at the earliest.