Gandhinagar: Gujarat Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel has directed top officials to ensure prompt resolution of citizens’ grievances raised during the June 2025 edition of state-level “SWAGAT” (State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology). Emphasizing a technology-driven, decentralized approach, the CM reiterated the importance of strict compliance with directives issued at the district and collector level to minimize the need for state-level escalation.
District-Level Redressal System to Be Strengthened
Gujarat Chief Minister called for a robust grievance redressal system at the grassroots, urging officials to enable citizens to resolve smaller issues at the village, taluka, or district level, rather than approaching the state headquarters.
He instructed collectors, municipal commissioners, police superintendents, and departmental officers to follow up on pending matters with urgency and accountability.
Key Issues Raised: From Municipalities to Land Records
During the state-level “SWAGAT” session for June, representations were received from across Gujarat, including matters related to:
- Rajkot and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporations
- Police administration
- Gram Panchayat-led road construction
- Land revenue issues
- Change of land use permissions
Mr Patel took a patient and responsive approach, personally hearing 12 of the 98 applicants who were present at the state-level event.
Sensitive Action on Farmers’ Land Records
In a key decision, the CM ordered the removal of outdated Section-4 mentions in farmers’ 7/12 land records, a long-standing issue affecting account holders under irrigation schemes. This decision aims to streamline land documentation and end uncertainty for affected farmers.
Zero Tolerance on Unauthorized Commercial Use and Encroachments
The Chief Minister issued clear instructions for strict enforcement in several areas, including:
- Unauthorized commercial activity in residential zones
- Encroachments on public roads
- Incorrect land measurements
- Environmental violations
He stressed the need for firm but citizen-friendly action, ensuring balance between law enforcement and public service.
June SWAGAT: 3349 Applications Received, 50% Resolved
- Total representations received: 3,349
- Applications resolved: Approx. 1,757 (~50%)
- State-level SWAGAT attendees: 98 applicants
- Applicants heard directly by CM: 12
Remaining cases handled by CM Office officials and forwarded for immediate action.
About SWAGAT
SWAGAT (State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology) is an e-governance initiative launched in Gujarat in 2003 to directly address citizens’ grievances. The SWAGAT programme was launched with the primary aim of leveraging technology to create an effective link between citizens and the government.
Held on the fourth Thursday of every month, SWAGAT enables citizens to present their complaints online directly to the Chief Minister, district collectors, and other officials via video conferencing. The system ensures transparency, accountability, and prompt resolution of public issues. With a track record of resolving over 90% of complaints efficiently, SWAGAT reflects Gujarat’s commitment to responsive governance and digital inclusion. It has received international recognition, including a United Nations Public Service Award.
Leadership Present at the State-Level “SWAGAT”
The session was attended by:
- Avantika Singh, Additional Principal Secretary to the CM
- Dr. Vikrant Pandey, Secretary to the CM
- Mr Dheeraj Parekh and Mr Rakesh Vyas, Officers on Special Duty
Various departmental secretaries and senior officers, present either in person or via video conferencing with district and city administrations.
