Mysuru: Even as social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and X shape public discourse and serve as platforms to raise issues, none of the senior bureaucrats in Mysuru district is available for public outreach online.The absence of senior bureaucrats from social media has surprised residents, who want the state govt to direct officials to be active online.Residents and activists criticised the alleged lethargic attitude of officials, claiming people’s representatives are more active and responsive on social media while govt agencies remain idle.According to activists, the last post from the Mysuru deputy commissioner’s X handle was made on May 31, 2021. Another major administrative body, Mysuru Development Authority (MDA), made its last post in July 2021. None of the major departments, including Mysuru tourism department, are active on any of the major social media platforms.The newly formed civic bodies around the city are yet to make their debut on social media, raising questions from the public.Activists said the deputy commissioners’ offices in neighbouring Chamarajanagar and Kodagu are more active on social media, helping keep the public updated on major news and developments. However, they alleged that many other districts also lack a serious approach to using social media for public outreach.According to Ravikeerthi Gowda, an activist, it is surprising to see Mysuru bureaucrats’ failure to utilise social media for the public good.“Even though district and city police are active on social media, they don’t often reply to the public comments,” he said.“To ensure that people’s grievances are addressed seriously, the govt must ask the officials to use their official social media accounts effectively,” he urged.According to K Suresh Rao, a resident of Alanahalli, the state govt needs to review the style of functioning in Mysuru seriously.“They don’t respond to media reports on civic issues or problems. They don’t entertain the public in their offices. On social media, it is easier to contact the PMO than Mysuru officials. The state govt must look into the issue,” he urged.“The politicians of Mysuru respond to the social media posts,” he argued.Chief secretary Shalini Rajneesh said the issue will be addressed.
