Islamabad : The Federal Ombudsman Syed Tahir Shahbaz has directed the Investigation Officers to decide every case within the time limit of 60 days.
He was addressing the Investigating Officers in a meeting at head office, Islamabad after Eid festival. The meeting was attended by all investigating officers, Secretary WMS Dr. Jamal Nasir, and other senior officers.
Federal Ombudsman was informed that more than 7000 cases were disposed of and 5,248 cases have been registered during the month of Ramazan. He was also informed that during the period of lockdown, 34,500 cases were registered and 32000 cases have been disposed of.
He asked all the Investigation Officers to facilitate the complainants in all respects by observing complete safety measures against the corona epidemic. He was informed that due to closure of Universities and lack of interest by the gas and electricity distribution companies during the corona pandemic, proper replies are not being submitted due to which some cases have been affected the time limit.
The Federal Ombudsman took a serious note on delay in submission of replies and asked the Secretary WMS to call in person their heads of departments immediately over delay in submission of departmental reports.
He said that presence of complainant during hearing proceedings is not essential and their point of view may be taken through telephone or by WhatsApp, however, if any complaint insists to join the hearing proceeding, safety measures must be ensured in all respects. The officers informed the HWM that registration of complaints and investigation work has been continued by keeping all safety measures.