Grievance Redressal Mechanisms

The Local Self Government Department (LSGD) has established several mechanisms to address complaints related to Grama Panchayats. The major grievance redressal systems are listed below:

Main Grievance Redressal Systems

K-SMART Online Portal

K-SMART is an integrated online platform for Local Self Government services. Citizens can submit complaints, grievances, and objections through this online system.

Link:  More Information 

Public Grievance Cell (LSGD)

Complaints can be submitted through the Public Grievance Cell functioning under the Local Self Government Department.

The department has also provided dedicated WhatsApp numbers for complaints regarding delays in service delivery, corruption, and Waste-Free New Kerala initiatives.

WhatsApp Number for reporting delays in services and corruption-related issues:

8078066060

WhatsApp Number for submitting complaints related to Waste-Free New Kerala:

9446700800

Ombudsman for Local Self Government Institutions

The Ombudsman is a statutory authority at the state level established to investigate complaints relating to corruption, maladministration, and irregularities committed by Presidents, governing body members, officials of Local Self Government Institutions, and officers directly or indirectly appointed to such institutions.

The Ombudsman conducts detailed and general investigations and disposes of complaints in accordance with the provisions of the relevant Act.

Link: More Information

Tribunal for Local Self Government Institutions

The Tribunal is responsible for considering and deciding appeals and review petitions against decisions made by Local Self Government Institutions.

A legal expert holding the rank of a District Judge is appointed as the Tribunal. The Tribunal is also empowered to express its opinion on matters referred by the Government regarding the legality and propriety of decisions taken by local bodies.

Key details:

  • Petitions must be filed in Form C within 30 days from the date of the order being challenged.
  • With the Tribunal's permission, petitions may be accepted with a delay of up to one additional month.
  • If no decision is taken on a petition submitted before a local body within 60 days, an appeal may be filed before the Tribunal within 90 days.
  • Self-attested copies of the petition, supporting documents, and affidavits (where applicable) may be submitted either directly or by registered post.
  • A Demand Draft of ₹50 payable at the Tribunal's Thiruvananthapuram office must accompany the petition.
  • A Legal Benefit Fund Stamp worth ₹100 must also be affixed to the petition.

Address:

Secretary
Tribunal for Local Bodies
Sreemoolam Building Court Complex
Vanchiyoor, Thiruvananthapuram

Chief Minister's Public Grievance Redressal System

This is the Government's online platform for receiving and addressing public grievances related to administration.

The portal enables citizens to:

  • Submit complaints
  • Track complaint status
  • Find charge officers
  • Access dashboards related to public services, grievance resolution, and relief fund reports
  • View citizen testimonials regarding public services

Any complaint related to the Local Self Government Department may also be submitted through this platform. Complaints are forwarded to the concerned department for necessary action.

Link: Visit Website

Grievance Redressal System of the Minister for Local Self Government and Excise

This online grievance redressal platform connects offices functioning under the Local Self Government and Excise Departments at various levels.

Citizens can submit complaints directly to the Minister through the portal. Updates regarding every stage of complaint processing are communicated to the complainant through SMS notifications.

Link: Visit Website

Vigilance Wing

To ensure strict action against unauthorized constructions, the Vigilance Wing functioning alongside the Secretariat examines complaints and objections from the public regarding:

  • Unauthorized or illegal building constructions across the state
  • Irregularities in related files and records
  • Violations of applicable rules and regulations

Link: More Information