Govt sets up new timeframe,HC backs it

The time-frame was brought in after the Delhi High Court intervened,asking the government to usher in greater accountability in the process by specifying a comprehensive procedure along with a deadline for all the steps involved.

Adjudicating two writ petitions — one filed by a group Pardarshita and another by an applicant Rajpati — Justice S Muralidhar had called for a well-advertised and time-bound process and sought an affidavit from the government. The petitions had complained against the delay in issuing the cards and also against the denial to renew the cards without providing adequate reasons.

Delhi government’s Standing Counsel Najmi Waziri had then assured the court of a positive response and subsequently a meeting of the commissioners,additional commissioners and assistant commissioners of the Department of Food & Supply and Consumer Affairs was held.

During a recent hearing,Waziri submitted the affidavit before the court intimating it about the new mechanism. According to the affidavit,the process to renew the BPL cards,along with admitting fresh applications,for around additional 1 lakh beneficiaries was started afresh in 2009. Biometric identification was also introduced for the first time. While holders were asked to submit their old cards,receipts and food coupons handed out to ensure continuous supply of ration.

The 45-day period has been split into phases and envisages the task to be done by the end of every phase bound again by a deadline (see box).

In order to flush out ineligible (only households with income up to Rs 1 lakh are eligible) and fraudulent applicants,stricter checks have been introduced.

According to the affidavit,once the Food and Supplies Officer receives an application,he or she will make a first-hand verification of the identity and residence. If a request is turned down,a letter will be sent through speed post giving clear reasons for the denial. If the request is accepted it will pass through the Vigilance Committee for scrutiny and recommendation.

Satisfied,Justice Muralidhar asked the government to test the efficacy of the proposed system.

As Rajpati’s case complained of 40 persons not receiving the renewed BPL cards,Waziri suggested their matter can be considered as a “test case”.

“This appears to be a reasonable suggestion. It would enable the court to appreciate if the procedure proposed by the GNCTD is feasible and effective,” said the judge,asking the counsel to submit an affidavit in this regard.

The timeline
Day 1
Accepting forms with biometric impressions; issuing receipt with due date and time.

Day 2-9
Intimation to applicants to appear before officials for biometric id,thumb impression.

Day 10-20
Applicanst to appear at Circle Offices for verification,biometric id.

Day 21
FSO to submit recommendations before Vigilance Committee.

Day 30
FSO to inform applications rejected.

Day 40
Approved applications to be sent to assistant commissioners for printing.

Day 42-45
Names of approved card-holders to be displayed,distribution of cards.