If Collectors Fail To Make Patwaris Work, They Have No Right To Be Collectors, Says Chief Secretary Ashok Barnwal

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: Chief Secretary Ashok Barnwal has expressed displeasure with collectors for their slow progress on property registration under the SVAMITVA scheme. During a video conference, Barnwal instructed collectors to either complete the work or take action against the Patwaris. As the highest-ranking officers in their districts, collectors are responsible for implementing government schemes, yet they have failed to do so, Barnwal emphasized.

The chief secretary demanded accountability from collectors, questioning their right to hold their position if they cannot carry out basic tasks through their subordinates. Patwaris have been vocal in their dissatisfaction with the collectors, with some even staging protests outside the office, Barnwal recounted. When questioned about their concerns regarding the SVAMITVA scheme, a few collectors admitted to facing challenges in implementing it, including reluctance from Tehsilders and Patwaris.

The documents for property sales include terms that Patwaris and Tehsilders objected to, citing the language used. Despite these issues existing prior to the scheme's implementation, Barnwal insisted that collectors must still implement the scheme. Concerns were also raised about Patwaris receiving their salaries without performing their duties, prompting Barnwal to question the logic behind this.

The chief secretary expressed frustration with the divisional commissioners as well, noting that only one had provided feedback on the scheme's implementation and actions taken against the Patwaris.