WHOSE LETHARGY CAUSED DISRUPTION OF POWER SUPPLY AT CMHO JAIPUR?

Jaipur: The electricity department cut off the power supply to the CMHO office in Sethi Colony, Jaipur, on Friday due to an outstanding bill of Rs 3.81 lakh. Consequently, operations at the CMHO ground to a halt, leaving employees to endure the sweltering heat and humidity.

Though the incident may seem minor, it has sparked widespread discussion. Administrative experts suggest it highlights a glaring inefficiency within the government, turning the situation into a public embarrassment. Given that the event occurred in the state capital, its gravity is amplified, prompting citizens to question who is accountable for this oversight.

According to CMHO Dr Ravi Shekhawat, due to the absence of a budget for the purpose, the electricity bill could not be deposited for two months. This situation raises a critical question: Has the government treasury really become so empty? Or is the allegation true that the Finance Department has imposed a verbal ban on expenses and payment of bills?

Critics argue that the inability to pay a relatively modest sum of Rs 3.81 lakh is unacceptable. They suggest that the CMHO office demonstrated negligence and irresponsibility by not prioritising the payment of the electricity bill. Another facet of this issue is the electricity department’s arguably excessive zeal in cutting off power.

However, retired IAS officer PN Bhandari offers a different perspective, stating, “Government departments should not consider themselves above accountability. Sometimes, drastic measures are necessary. I once arranged for the disconnection of power in the Police Lines in Jaipur, which significantly improved compliance across all departments as our message was clear.” Regardless of whether the Finance Department, CMHO, or Discom is to blame, Friday’s incident has placed the entire administrative system in the dock.