Handwara, July 21: Residents of Magam in north Kashmir’s Handwara have voiced concern over the prolonged absence of regular officers in several key government offices, saying the continued reliance on additional charge arrangements is affecting the smooth delivery of essential public services.
Locals said they are facing increasing inconvenience in getting routine official work completed, with many having to make repeated visits to government offices for revenue matters, land records, certificates, welfare scheme related services and other administrative work. They said the absence of dedicated officers has resulted in delays, leaving people frustrated.
According to residents, Magam is one of the important administrative blocks of Tehsil Handwara, comprising more than 50 villages with a population of over 35,000. They said such a large population requires the presence of regular officers to ensure timely disposal of public grievances and smooth implementation of government programmes.
Highlighting the issue, social and peace activist Dr. Sheikh Jamsheed said the matter should be viewed as a public issue rather than a criticism of any individual officer.
“This is not an issue against any officer. Those holding additional charge are already burdened with multiple responsibilities. Magam deserves dedicated full time officers so that people do not suffer because of administrative delays,” Dr. Jamsheed said.
He said the post of Naib Tehsildar in Magam has remained effectively vacant for nearly a month, while the officer holding additional charge is also managing the busy Handwara Nayabat, making it difficult to effectively discharge responsibilities in both jurisdictions.
Dr. Jamsheed appealed to the J&K Government, Lieutenant Governor, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara and the concerned departments to appoint regular officers in Magam, including a full time Naib Tehsildar, Block Development Officer and other key officials, so that public services are delivered efficiently and without unnecessary delay.
