Manmohan Singh asks ministers to be accessible to MPs

In the wake of complaints about inaccessibility of some ministers, prime minister Manmohan Singh has asked them to spare time for MPs who want to raise issues pertaining to the people.

Singh has written to all Union ministers, asking them to be "easily accessible" to the MPs.

"It is one of the important duties of the MPs to represent to the authorities concerned issues and grievances brought to their notice by their constituents," the letter stated.

He said for the effective performance of their duty, the MPs often need to meet Union and state government ministers as well as other functionaries.

"Therefore, it should be the endeavour of all of us to be easily accessible to them," Singh wrote.

He hoped the ministers would keep the "important aspect" in mind when MPs seek appointment with them. 

Sources said the prime minister had to write the letter as some MPs had complained about inaccessibility of certain ministers.