Hubballi: Despite the model code of conduct (MCC) being in force, the government has changed the timing of government offices in all six districts of Hyderabad-Karnataka region and two districts of Mumbai-Karnataka region with effect from April 7. Both the public and employees have criticized the decision.
There were rumors that the timing won’t be changed in the wake of the assembly elections.
Sujata H S, undersecretary to the government, Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms, has stated in a circular that there was proposal from Karnataka State Government Employees Association (KSGEA) and a recommendation from regional commissioner offices of Kalaburagi and Belagavi divisions. “The MCC review committee meeting held under chairmanship of chief secretary has decided to revise working hours from 8am to 1.30pm in Vijayapura and Bagalkot districts of Belagavi division and all six districts of Hyderabad-Karnataka region,” she added.
Circular says KSGEA has demanded working hours from 10am to 1.30pm.
Reacting to the circular, Andappa Kolur, Yelburga taluk president, Karnataka Rajya Raith Sangha and Hasiru Sene, said that the decision was good for employees and not farmers. “It is a known fact that farmers cannot reach taluk offices by 8am. Even if they do, most officials won’t be there on time. If farmers have works in two or more offices, they cannot get the work done on the same day as offices will shut by 1.30pm. The changed timing should be dropped,” he said.
Gungadi Sharanappa, agriculture officer, Yelburga, said the revised timing won’t be useful for officials from agriculture, revenue and horticulture departments who have to be in touch with public on a daily basis. “We will have to be in office till 1.30pm and we will have to attend election related meetings too if district officials call for them in the afternoon. We expect that there will afternoon meetings at least for 25 days in the next two months,” he said.
Raghavendra Kushtagi, one of the founders of Jan Sangram Parishat said the decision was positive for employees. “But the employees should work honestly during the given hours. They should look at farmers, construction workers, labourers, police and NEKRTC drivers who work baring the hot son and rain,’ he added.
