Delhi's new timely services bill proposes fines for officials over delayed public services
The Delhi government has proposed a new law that aims to make the timely delivery of public services a legal right for citizens while holding government officials accountable for unnecessary delays.
The proposed Delhi Right of Citizen to Time Bound and Ease of Delivery of Service Bill, 2026 introduces stricter penalties for officials who fail to provide notified services within the prescribed time.
Under the Bill, officials responsible for delays could face daily fines starting at ₹250, with penalties going up to ₹5,000. The legislation also proposes a fully digital system to track applications, send automated updates to applicants, and automatically escalate unresolved cases to higher authorities. A new statutory commission is also proposed to oversee implementation and hear appeals.
The Bill is designed to improve transparency, reduce bureaucratic delays and make government services more citizen-friendly. If passed, it will replace the existing 2011 law and strengthen accountability by giving residents a legal mechanism to seek timely delivery of services and challenge unjustified delays or rejections.
