A Decade of the Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act!

To ensure transparent, efficient, and time-bound delivery of public services to citizens, the Government of Maharashtra implemented the Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act, 2015. This Act mandates timely completion of public-related work in government and semi-government offices. Enforced on April 28, 2015, the state has since celebrated this day as “Seva Hakk Din” (Right to Services Day). As the Act completes ten years of implementation, here’s a special feature highlighting its impact.

The Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act, 2015 has become a crucial piece of legislation for citizens across the state. It applies to all eligible individuals and public authorities offering notified services, as per the provisions of the Act, covering the entire state.

Purpose and Significance

The Act’s primary objective is to provide transparent, efficient, and timely public services to eligible citizens. It also aims to enhance accountability and transparency within public authorities. Eligibility is determined based on provisions of relevant laws, and any eligible person — including those residing abroad — can apply for notified services under this Act.

In the past decade, over 180 million (18 crore) applicants have benefited from services under this Act. Initiatives like the “Aaple Sarkar Portal” have significantly simplified citizens’ daily interactions with government departments. Over 1,000 services have been notified under this Act, of which 583 services are available online. More than 10 million citizens have registered on the portal.

Right to Timely Public Services

The Act grants citizens the right to receive public services within a stipulated time. These services are offered by government departments, agencies, corporations, local self-government bodies, and NGOs receiving government funding. A clear timeline is defined for each service. Copies of the Act and related rules are available for free on the Aaple Sarkar portal and the RTS Maharashtra mobile app.

Role of Public Authorities

Public authorities play a critical role in the effective enforcement of this Act. They are required to publicize details of the notified services, including time limits, fees, designated officers, and appellate authorities — both on official notice boards and websites. Failure to do so can lead to intervention by the Chief Commissioner or concerned commissioners.

Efforts are also made to reduce the number of documents and affidavits required to access services.

How to Apply

Applications for services can be submitted:

• Directly to the designated officer,
• At the respective office,
• Or online via the Aaple Sarkar Seva Portal.

Each service has a unique application format and required documents list, available at offices, Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendras (ASSKs), and respective department websites.

Online Application Facility

The Aaple Sarkar Seva Portal (https://aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in) is a unified online platform for public service applications. For citizens unable to apply themselves, over 32,000 ASSKs operate across Maharashtra. Additionally, the RTS Maharashtra mobile app is available in Marathi and English. Each online application receives a Unique Identification Number (UIN) to enable easy tracking of status.

Appeals in Case of Service Denial or Delay

If a qualified applicant is denied service or doesn’t receive it within the stipulated period, they can appeal to the First Appellate Authority within 30 days from the date of rejection or lapse. In justified cases, this period can be extended up to 90 days. Appeal notices can be sent via personal delivery, registered post, email, SMS, or the mobile app.

About Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendras (ASSKs)

These centers assist citizens in availing public services and are located at tehsils, gram panchayats, municipalities, and some private venues. They offer services from all departments listed on the portal.

Penalties for Service Delay or Denial

The Act includes clear provisions for penal action against officers who fail to deliver services or act on appeals in a timely manner.

• Designated Officer Penalties: If services are not provided within the stipulated time without valid reason, the officer may be fined between ₹500 and ₹5,000. The First Appellate Authority can impose this penalty after a hearing.
• Disciplinary Action: Repeated delays or failure to follow appellate authority’s orders can result in disciplinary proceedings against the officer.

The Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act, 2015 is a landmark legislation protecting citizen rights and enhancing transparency in government work. For effective implementation, public authorities must fulfill their responsibilities, and citizens should stay informed and utilize their rights to ensure timely and transparent public services.