Reduced number of centres leads to overcrowding; allegations of tout activity; no separate facilities for senior citizens and women
Amritsar, August 4 (Phuljit Singh Varpal):The Punjab Government established Sewa Kendras across the state to provide multiple government services under one roof. These centres offer nearly 456 public services, including birth and death certificates, Aadhaar-related services, vehicle-related documents, and other essential government services. These documents are crucial for opening bank accounts, school admissions, medical insurance, and several other official and personal purposes.
However, the situation at Sewa Kendras in Amritsar appears to be far from satisfactory. According to reports, although the centres open around 9:00 AM, people begin lining up as early as 5:00 AM just to obtain a token. Even after the centres open, citizens have to endure long waiting hours, and many leave disappointed every day after failing to secure a token.
During a visit by our team, large crowds, including women, children, and senior citizens, were seen waiting outside in temperatures of nearly 43°C. Around 15 to 20 people reportedly returned home without receiving a token.
The conditions inside the centres were also found to be inadequate. Despite the extreme heat and humidity, visitors were forced to wait for long periods for their turn. No separate arrangements were available for senior citizens or women. Several air conditioners were reportedly not functioning, causing discomfort to both visitors and staff.
Some citizens also alleged that middlemen (touts) operating outside the centres were exploiting people’s helplessness. According to the allegations, services officially costing ₹50 were being offered for ₹150–₹200, with appointments allegedly arranged on a priority basis. Some people further claimed there was collusion between certain employees and these middlemen. However, these allegations have not been officially verified.
When contacted, Sewa Kendra In-charge Bahadur Singh stated that most services are also available online. He explained that Amritsar district earlier had around 145 Sewa Kendras, but the number has now reduced to approximately 41, resulting in increased crowding at the remaining centres.
He further said that awareness campaigns regarding online appointments and digital services would be launched in the coming days so that citizens do not have to face unnecessary inconvenience due to long queues or extreme weather.
KL JIT WALIA
