Citizens across the Maharashtra will have to shell out more for getting things like change in name, caste, religion or change in date of birth published in the government gazette. The state has increased the charges manifold citing higher overhead cost.
Citizens across the Maharashtra will have to shell out more for getting things like change in name, caste, religion or change in date of birth published in the government gazette. The state has increased the charges manifold citing higher overhead cost.
What are the new charges?
Earlier, the government used to charge Rs120 from open category, while the rate was Rs.60 for people from the reserved class. The prices have now been revised to Rs500 and Rs250 for open and reserved categories respectively. This translates into a hike of about 300%.
Why the increase in rates?
An officer from the Government Central Press in Charni Road said that they were finding it difficult to bear the printing cost as well as expenses towards modernisation of the unit. "Printing apart, we have to bring out an online edition of the document. The government has recruited computer-trained staff, who are paid more salary. One needs to understand that the government had not increased the charges for more than a decade. Also, the rates are not very high."
Can one apply for changes online?
Yes. A senior official from the press, which is the official publisher of gazette, said, "Now on, advertisement on change of name, religion, caste and date of birth will be done online. We will even take bookings online. It will be easier for commoners to apply at their convenience." He said that earlier applicants would get two hard copies of the gazette by post. "Now, an advertiser will not get any hard copies. One can download any numbers of copies from the government's website."
What do social activists say?
Social activist Dr Mahender Singh Churiyana termed the decision unjustified. "Instead, the government should have done it periodically. Also, they should advertise the gazette fortnightly, which was the practice about seven years ago. Now, the publication comes out after three to four months."
Sunil Zode, chairman of Dalit Chamber of Commerce for Affirmative Action, said "The online system is good for those who have internet connection. The government should start its facilitation centres for those who doesn't have access to the net, at reasonable fees. This would save them from touts."
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