Court Directs State to Formulate Strict Timelines for Public Service Delivery Under 2011 Act
In a significant decision, the Rajasthan High Court has reprimanded the State authorities for an undue delay in the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the Health And Education Care Society, Gupta Nursing College. The college had complied with all necessary requirements and received a favorable inspection report as early as July 2025, yet the NOC was withheld for over eight months without justification.
Justice Sanjeet Purohit, while delivering the judgment, emphasized that such inaction violates the Rajasthan Guaranteed Delivery of Public Services Act, 2011, particularly Sections 4 and 5, which mandate timely delivery of public services. The court highlighted that this delay undermines public accountability and burdens judicial resources unnecessarily.
The court has directed the State to develop a comprehensive framework with strict timelines for the issuance of NOCs to avoid future delays. It also warned of imposing heavy costs on the State if the NOC is not issued within fifteen days from the date of the order.
The petitioner, represented by Mr. Shreyansh Mardia, argued that despite the college meeting all prescribed norms, the lack of communication and delay from the authorities compelled them to seek judicial intervention. The State, represented by Mr. N.S. Rajpurohit, AAG, assured the court that the NOC would be granted shortly.
The court's decision underscores the need for administrative efficiency and adherence to statutory timelines to foster public trust in governmental processes.
Bottom Line:
Delay in granting No Objection Certificate (NOC) despite clear recommendation by inspecting committee violates statutory guidelines and frustrates the purpose of timely public service delivery under the Rajasthan Guaranteed Delivery of Public Services Act, 2011.
Statutory provision(s): Rajasthan Guaranteed Delivery of Public Services Act, 2011, Sections 4 and 5
