Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has issued a stern directive to senior central government officials, urging them to shed their "perceived reluctance" to meet non-officials and engage directly with the public. In a letter addressed to all central government ministry and department secretaries, the nation’s top bureaucrat emphasized that such interactions are vital for understanding ground realities, clarifying policy misunderstandings, and sparking new ideas.

Breaking Down Barriers

Somanathan highlighted feedback from various societal sections, noting that many senior officials appear hesitant to grant appointments to individuals outside official circles, such as contractors, trade union members, NGO representatives, or private sector employees. He stressed that access should not be denied based on profession, background, or involvement in legal or contractual disputes. “The work of the government impacts countless people and organizations. Meeting them offers insights into field realities and helps rectify mistakes,” he wrote.

Meetings in Offices, Not Clubs

The Cabinet Secretary laid down clear guidelines, insisting that such meetings occur in official settings, not social venues like clubs or hotels. “If needed, have another officer present as a precaution,” he advised, while clarifying that interactions with foreign officials must follow Ministry of External Affairs protocols. Somanathan also urged secretaries to encourage other senior officers in their ministries to adopt this open-door approach, despite time constraints.

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A Push for Transparency

The directive underscores the need for accessibility in governance, aiming to bridge the gap between policymakers and the public. By fostering direct dialogue, Somanathan believes officials can better detect miscommunications, address grievances, and refine government initiatives. This move signals a broader push for transparency and responsiveness in India’s bureaucracy, challenging senior officials to step out of their comfort zones and engage with the people they serve.

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