In a unique move to address negligence in public service, Noida Authority CEO Dr. Lokesh M reprimanded 16 staff members by making them work while standing for 20 minutes. The incident, which occurred on Monday at the Authority’s Sector 6 office, was captured on CCTV and quickly went viral on social media. The action was taken after an elderly man was left waiting for assistance for over an hour despite clear instructions to prioritize his request.
This decisive move has garnered widespread attention, with many praising the CEO for holding the staff accountable, while others questioned the long-term impact of such symbolic measures.
Negligence Caught on Camera
Dr. Lokesh, a 2005-batch IAS officer who assumed charge of the Noida Authority in 2023, regularly monitors the office using a network of 65 CCTV cameras. On Monday, while reviewing footage, he noticed an elderly man standing unattended at a counter.
The man, who had visited the office to address a property transfer matter, remained unassisted despite the CEO’s direct instructions to the staff to prioritize his case. Frustrated by the lack of response, Dr. Lokesh personally visited the section and found the elderly visitor still waiting.
The Punishment and Its Purpose
To emphasize the importance of prompt service, Dr. Lokesh ordered all 16 staff members present at the counter to stand and work for 20 minutes. His reasoning was clear: “Only when you work while standing will you understand the difficulties faced by the elderly,” he told the employees.
A video capturing the incident shows staff members, including women, standing and attending to visitors. Dr. Lokesh further reminded them of their duty as public servants, emphasizing, “We are here to help the public and resolve their problems. This is not how a public service should function.”
Social Media Reactions: Praise and Criticism
The CEO’s action quickly became the subject of online discussions. Many social media users applauded Dr. Lokesh for addressing negligence in government offices, with comments like, “This is the kind of accountability we need in public service.”
However, not all responses were positive. Critics argued that such measures, while symbolic, might not bring lasting change to work culture. One user remarked, “Did this solve the problem for the elderly man? No. The work culture needs to change, and staff must be sensitized.”
Increased Visitor Footfall Strains Services
The Noida Authority office, which sees over 1,000 visitors daily, has experienced longer waiting times due to recent policy changes. These include a mandate requiring both buyers and sellers to be physically present for property transfer documentation. The added footfall has increased pressure on staff, highlighting the need for better systems and training to manage public service efficiently.
Dr. Lokesh’s Track Record of Reform
This isn’t the first time Dr. Lokesh has taken bold steps to improve efficiency at the Noida Authority. In September last year, he cracked down on tardiness among senior officials after many were found arriving late despite living close to the office. His efforts reflect a commitment to setting higher standards for public service.
A New Wave of Accountability
Dr. Lokesh’s actions underline the growing demand for accountability and efficiency in public offices. While symbolic, such moves send a strong message to employees and the public about the importance of responsiveness and respect in governance. By addressing these lapses directly, the CEO is fostering a culture of responsibility and change that could inspire reforms in other government departments.