In a move aimed at delivering direct administrative assistance and resolving public grievances effectively, Cabinet Minister for Skill Development and Co-Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburbs, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, organized a unique Janata Darbar that brought together officers from multiple departments under one roof setting a new benchmark in citizen outreach.
Held at the BJP state headquarters, the Janata Darbar witnessed participation from nearly 500 citizens across Maharashtra who presented their concerns directly to the minister and officials. While Janata Darbars by ministers are not uncommon in the state, Minister Lodha’s initiative was distinct for assembling officials from 12 different departments including the Mumbai Port Trust and Railways. Citizens raised issues ranging from roads, water supply, and electricity to matters related to land under the jurisdiction of the Mumbai District Collector.
An elderly couple, Jotindra and Meenakshi Lotwal from CP Tank, expressed gratitude to Minister Lodha for resolving their long-pending issue regarding a speed breaker near their residence thanks to the presence of both BMC and MMRDA officials. Similarly, Krisha Kothari, a student from Mulund, was able to resolve an issue related to her higher education admission, according to her relative Jatin Chande.
Minister Lodha patiently listened to each citizen and issued clear directives to the concerned officials for immediate action. “Direct engagement with the public is the soul of democracy. Citizens’ grievances must not remain stuck in paperwork they should be resolved promptly. That is my core belief,” Lodha stated.
BJP’s Maharashtra State President and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who was present during the event, praised Minister Lodha for the impactful initiative and suggested that he should tour Maharashtra to resolve citizens’ issues across the state.
The citizens, who were able to speak directly to senior officers from various departments, expressed satisfaction and appreciation for this effective and accessible format.
