Recent reports of empty desks, vacant cabins and missing personnel during working hours in various PWD divisions in Goa have once again highlighted public concerns over staff attendance, punctuality and departmental functioning. Government offices exist to serve citizens, and their employees must discharge their duties with sincerity and discipline. The authorities should conduct surprise inspections to identify latecomers and unauthorised absences, while holding department heads accountable for maintaining proper attendance. Strict directives on fixed reporting times, attendance registers and staff movement records are necessary to ensure transparency. There are black sheep everywhere. Some employees reportedly seek permission to leave for an hour but never return to the office. Such practices inconvenience the public and place an additional burden on employees who perform their duties diligently. This reflects a broader problem often described as ‘Babu Culture’, where a lack of punctuality and accountability undermines public service. Citizens should not have to make repeated visits or plead for their legitimate rights because officials are unavailable. A government office should be the last place where a citizen feels compelled to beg for a service.
KG VILOP, Chorao
