Complaint Resolution
Grievance Redressal Mechanisms in Local Self-Government Institutions
1. Local Self-Government Ombudsman (Ombudsman for LSGIs)
The Local Self-Government Ombudsman is a high-level judicial body where citizens can file complaints regarding corruption, irregularities, abuse of power, and dereliction of duty by elected representatives or officials of local bodies. A person holding the status of a High Court Judge heads this institution.
2. Local Self-Government Tribunal (LSGI Tribunal)
This is a court-like system to file appeals against decisions, orders, denial of licenses, or cancellation of building permits by the Panchayat Governing Body or the Secretary. Its headquarters is located in Thiruvananthapuram.
3. Chief Minister's Portal (CMO Portal)
Delays or other difficulties experienced in obtaining Panchayat services can be brought directly to the attention of the Chief Minister through this portal. Officials are bound to resolve these complaints within a specified timeframe.
4. K-SMART Citizen Portal
This is an online single-window system of the Local Self-Government Department. Without visiting the Panchayat office in person, citizens can submit service-related complaints online and track their status.
5. Vigilance Department
Complaints regarding demands for bribes, financial irregularities, and misappropriation of government funds that are likely to occur in Panchayat offices can be filed directly with the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau.