Deputy CM’s attempts to reach toll-free number fail

Patna: Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also holds the revenue and land reforms department portfolio, had first-hand experience of the department’s operations when no one answered his calls on the toll-free number intended to address public grievances. This came to light after Sinha himself visited the office for a surprise inspection on Thursday.The department operates a toll-free number, 1800-345-6215, to resolve land and revenue-related complaints. Sinha revealed that he had personally attempted to call the number several times without success, raising concerns about the system's effectiveness.He warned the officials concerned against any form of negligence in this regard and requested the CCTV footage of the call centre as well as call-related data.“If any negligence or indifference is found at any level during the investigation, strict action will be taken against those responsible. Accountability and sensitivity are paramount in services related to the public, and no laxity in this regard will be acceptable,” Sinha said.Taking serious note of continuous complaints regarding the functioning of the department's call centre, Sinha conducted a surprise inspection on Thursday afternoon. During his visit, he spoke to several complainants over the phone, listened to their problems, and assessed the actual situation at the call centre.He added that any person can avail of services related to the department on working days from 9.30am to 6pm, where complaints can also be registered. “This system is linked to the public grievance portal. Complaints registered here are automatically transferred to the public grievance portal,” he added.