HATTIAN BALA (Kashmir English): After the Eid holiday period ended both Jhelum Valley and Hattian Bala government offices began business again but most employees chose to stay home. Many authorities and staff members were absent from their official positions which rendered essential governmental departments unable to function properly when citizens attempted to handle official matters at these offices.
Expected normal operating procedures in government departments failed to return because numerous employees extended their unofficial absence. Most employees who attended work displayed detachment in their duties, which resulted in more work inefficiencies. Public services experienced substantial slowdowns because few members of staff remained active, which made it difficult for residents to receive document validations and necessary file approvals, along with general administrative assistance.
A disgruntled visitor at one of the offices expressed his frustration, saying, “I came here to get my land documents verified, but the concerned officer is absent. The staff told me he wouldn’t be coming today. If they don’t intend to work, then what’s the point of reopening offices?”
This issue of absenteeism after major holidays is not a new occurrence in Jhelum Valley and Hattian Bala. According to local residents, government employees routinely extend their holidays by taking an extra day or two off, causing serious delays in official procedures. The public, already struggling with bureaucratic red tape, finds it increasingly difficult to complete their necessary paperwork due to these unofficial absences.
When approached for comment, the district administration did not provide a clear response. A government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted, “This is a common practice, and no specific policy has been implemented to curb it. Higher officials have the power to take action when public complaints rise in numbers.
Despite their dissatisfaction citizens demand the government and district leadership to implement binding policies which will force employees to be present after holidays. Public services may continue to suffer disruptions because many citizens think that weak enforcement measures will keep causing delays and uncomfortable situations for people living there.
The situation demonstrates the necessity to improve public sector governance in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) standards which would maintain uninterrupted essential services beyond holiday periods.
