DC phases out affidavits officials swear by these

LUDHIANA: Citizens visiting the government departments here are caught off-guard as they were asked to submit affidavits forms, which are no longer required. The self-attestation forms that were announced as pre-requisite to get various works done by the deputy commissioner are not accepted by the officials. Speaking about it, a resident who wanted to get his father's property transferred to his name said, "I reached the MC officials to get the work done, but they asked for affidavit.When I told them that the system was changed, they rudely answered that they do not need to know it from somebody."
Another resident said, "Things should be clear. The authorities should put up boards stating that affidavits are required here. This would lessen harassment and wastage of time by residents, who find themselves at a loss due to different rules in different departments."
Punjab Government decided to implement the self-attested declaration system instead of affidavit for utility services, obtaining various certificates and admission in education institutions. Deputy commissioner Rahul Tiwari had announced launch of this across the district in all government departments from April 1. Earlier, an applicant needed to submit affidavit for obtaining certificates of domicile, caste, rural and many other things. But now, the resident could submit self-attested declaration form, he said.
Applicants need not require to attest certificates from any magistrate for applying of jobs and admission in educational institutions. They could self attest photo copies of their own certificates and affix photographs with this declaration, he added.
When highlighted the problems faced by residents, Tiwari said, "The proposal has been implemented and as municipal corporation falls under the same category, it should abide by the rules. But still if any resident faces any problem, he or she can approach me directly and their problem would be answered." He further said, “Moreover, from April 1, we have put up two special counters at Suvidha Kendra to help people. Self attestation forms are also available there."