“Be the Bridge, Not a Barrier”: DCM D.K. Shivakumar Urges Government Employees to Serve Public Efficiently
At the State Government Employees’ Day celebration, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar advises officials to adopt a positive attitude, avoid red tape, and recognize their unique opportunity to bring change.
Bengaluru, April 21 –
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar issued a strong message to Karnataka’s government employees on Monday, urging them to stop making citizens run from pillar to post for basic services and to instead become catalysts for change within the public service machinery.
Speaking at the State Government Employees’ Day 2025 celebration and the State-Level ‘Sarvottama Seva’ Award Ceremony at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, Shivakumar likened government employees to priests, saying they act as intermediaries between the people and the government.
“Just like a priest stands between a devotee and God, you stand between the people and the government. Don’t make citizens visit your offices again and again for work that can be done efficiently. Work with a positive attitude,” Shivakumar appealed.
“Avoid Needless Bureaucracy”
The DCM criticized the practice of creating hurdles for people even when their work is viable and complete.
“Some officials behave as though their job is merely to put up obstacles. Even when a task is possible, people are told to bring one document after another. In rural areas, I’ve seen people forced to offer bribes in the form of snacks, fruits, or even chickens just to get simple things done. I’ve experienced this firsthand during my political career,” he said.
“You Have a Rare Opportunity – Use It Well”
Acknowledging the scale and importance of the bureaucracy, Shivakumar reminded employees of their privileged position.
“With 12.5 lakh government employees in Karnataka, you’ve received an opportunity that millions compete for. For 50 or 100 posts, lakhs apply. Value this chance. With wealth, you can support a family, but with power, you can support society,” he noted.
On Accountability and Democracy
Shivakumar emphasized the importance of accepting correction and being open to scrutiny from various democratic institutions—including the media.
“In a democracy, civil servants are the executive branch that implements decisions made by the legislature. If we make mistakes, the judiciary corrects us. And the press points out our faults. Don’t get angry when mistakes are highlighted—acknowledge and correct them,” he said.
He added, “If no one writes negatively about us, it means we haven’t done anything wrong. But if we err, it’s their duty to report it.”
Public Comes to You Only When They Need Help
Highlighting the essential role of public servants, Shivakumar said:
“Just as we go to temples and pray for our children and families, people come to you when they face difficulties. If everything runs smoothly, they won’t even need to visit your office. That should be your goal.”
A Personal Anecdote and the Power of Compassion
Recalling a past encounter with former Chitradurga Deputy Commissioner Puttarangaiah, Shivakumar shared a story from the time of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination.
“I had gone to get a cinema license. Even though it was a day of mourning, he anticipated difficulties and issued the license immediately. I still remember and respect him for that. If you help people, society will remember you. Be that kind of officer,” he said.
“This Is a Chance to Serve Society”
Shivakumar underscored the moral dimension of public service:
“You are not just workers—you are caretakers of the people. Just like a tree relies on its roots and children rely on their mothers, the public depends on you. We may make policies, but it’s up to you to implement them and flag their shortcomings.”
He cited the words of Kengal Hanumanthaiah, saying, “A government job is like a divine duty.”
“While politicians face elections every five years, you have the opportunity to serve society for 60 years. That should make you proud. I’m not asking you to break the law—but within the framework of the law, always think of the people,” he urged.
Reforms and Representation
Addressing recent criticism about schemes like free electricity and bus passes, Shivakumar defended the government’s welfare initiatives.
“People questioned why these benefits were extended to government employees. But we have given access to all. Our success is in our hands—and this government, under the leadership of Siddaramaiah, is committed to your well-being and your future.”
He concluded by noting that a committee headed by Anjum Parvez has been formed to work on decisions affecting government employees, and that Shadakshari has been re-elected as the president of the state employees’ union.
“You have a strong team working on your behalf,” Shivakumar affirmed.
Implications:
Shivakumar’s remarks reflect a broader push by the Karnataka government to address public grievances against bureaucratic delays, inefficiencies, and corruption, particularly at the grassroots level. His appeal for compassionate, citizen-focused governance comes at a time when public trust in administrative machinery is often tested by red tape and poor accountability.
The DCM’s candid tone and personal anecdotes signal a political strategy to align governance with people-centric values—setting the tone for future reforms in public service delivered.
🔹 Statements
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Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar tells government employees: “Don’t make citizens run in circles. Be part of the solution, not the system’s problem.”
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“Public service is not a privilege—it’s a responsibility. Government employees must act with empathy, not arrogance.”
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“Just like priests connect devotees to God, officers must connect citizens to governance—with dignity and without delay.”
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Karnataka has 12.5 lakh government employees. DCM urges them to use this rare opportunity to serve, not hinder.
🔹 Quotes:
“You are the bridge between the people and the government. Don’t turn it into a wall.”
“If we don’t make mistakes, no one will write against us. But if we do, we must correct them—not complain.”
“Power gives you the chance to help more than your own family—use it to serve the people.”
“Public servants are not just officials—they’re caretakers of democracy.”
