‘GSNs should uphold their dignity and intergrity’

Ridma Dissanayake

The position of Grama Seva Niladharies has a history of over 50 years. They have to face many challenges at village level public representatives.

They should serve the villagers in an unbiased manner. Grama Seva Niladharies should understand the ways and means of serving the public in an efficient manner, while protecting the prestige of their position, Public Administration and Home Affairs Ministry Secretary P. B. Abeykoon said.

Grama Seva Niladharies should not act in a biased manner towards any political party, race, religion or class division. They should have the confidence to say that they are not biased in any matter, he added.

“But due to several media reports during the last few weeks, complaints have been received from several parties, that a few Grama Seva Niladharies have lost their dignity by receiving gifts and privileges from several parties.

The Public Administration and Home Affairs Ministry has always given priority to the needs and wants of Grama Seva Niladharies,” he said.

The Secretary said Grama Seva Niladharies involved in village level administration, should avoid accepting any sort of privilages from any institution, person or organization, other than what the government offers.”

Arrangements are in place to provide circulars relating to the manner in which Grama Seva Niladharies should work. According to the circular, receiving of gifts or privilege was a violation of the Establishment Code.

The Ministry would take disciplinary action against those Grama Seva Niladharies who violate the Establishment Code, Abeykoon said.

The Public Administration and Home Affairs Ministry urged the Grama Seva Niladharies to serve the public according to the instructions and guidelines provided by the Ministry.