PANAJI
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar found only two employees present during a surprise visit to the WRD office in Bicholim on Thursday at 9.30 am. He warned that negligence and delays in public services would not be tolerated.
Expressing his disappointment while speaking to the media, Shirodkar raised concerns over staff punctuality. “There are around 51,000 to 60,000 government employees, yet people’s issues are not being resolved. Pending work cannot be cleared by working 10-11 hours a day. Hence, I came early to Bicholim to inspect the office and waited, but no one showed up,” Shirodkar said.
The Minister said he waited for an additional half an hour, but neither clerks nor engineers reported to work on time. He said he found only two employees present - a woman sweeper and a male staff member.
“I want to send a clear message to my entire staff and all departments that punctuality must be maintained. It is mainly about work culture. Employees think they are the bosses and people are their servants, which is irresponsible behaviour. Once this attitude sets in, they come and go whenever they want and take leave whenever they wish,” he said.
Shirodkar termed such behaviour dangerous, stating that neglecting duties and failing to clear pending work affects public services.
