The Himachal Pradesh government proposes to enact a new law enabling it to confiscate illegal assets of public servants. A law to fix accountability of public servants is also planned, an official said here Monday.
During the six-day monsoon session, the government proposes to introduce a new legislation to confiscate illegal assets of public servants, a government spokesman told.
The Himachal Pradesh Confiscation of Ill-gotten Assets Bill will help in seizing the illegally acquired assets of public servants.
“During the monsoon session of the assembly beginning Aug 22, the government is proposing to enact a new law aimed to ensure transparency, accountability and responsiveness in the administration,” the spokesperson said.
He said the cabinet of the Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled (BJP) Himachal Pradesh Monday granted approval to introduce the Himachal Pradesh Public Services Guarantee Bill.The proposed bill will guarantee delivery of public services to citizens within a stipulated time frame and set in place an accountability mechanism.
This is a welcome move. There should be a strong central legislation either by way of new law or amendment to existing law. Further the period of jail term should be enhanced substantially. In principle, the assets of a public servant and close relative should belong to the state; unless explained satisfactorily.