TP Report
PESHAWAR: A joint awareness session was organized by Blue Veins for students representing various universities in Peshawar, focusing on enhancing youth understanding of citizens’ rights under the Right to Public Services framework in the province.
The session was addressed by Tashfeen Israr, District Monitoring Officer, Peshawar of the Right to Public Services Commission, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He delivered a comprehensive briefing on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Right to Public Services Act, 2014, underlining that essential public services, including domicile certificates, licenses, and other civic entitlements, must be provided within legally defined timelines.
He informed participants about the formal mechanisms available for citizens in cases where services are delayed, denied, or delivered below standard. These include structured complaint procedures, imposition of penalties on responsible officials, and provision of compensation to affected citizens. He emphasized that the Commission serves as a critical pillar in promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability within public institutions.
“The Right to Public Services is a transformative governance reform that places citizens at the center of service delivery. Awareness among young people is essential to ensure that these rights are not only understood but actively exercised,” said Tashfeen Israr.
Encouraging civic responsibility, he called upon students to extend this awareness beyond academic spaces.“Young people have the capacity to influence communities. By informing others about these rights and procedures, you contribute to building a more responsive and accountable system of governance,” he added.
The session remained highly interactive, with students actively engaging in discussions and raising questions regarding service delivery mechanisms, the functioning of the RTS system, and the grievance redressal process.
Also speaking at the session, Qamar Naseem, Ambassador for Peshawar RTS, highlighted the indispensable role of civil society and community-based actors in advancing public awareness.“Civil society organizations and community activists play a vital role in connecting citizens with state institutions. Their efforts in raising awareness, guiding individuals through procedures, and facilitating access to the Right to Public Services Commission are essential for ensuring that rights translate into real benefits for people,” said Qamar Naseem.
He further stressed the importance of collective efforts to ensure that citizens are not left unsupported in cases where services are delayed or denied, and that accessible pathways to redress remain widely known.
The session concluded with a strong emphasis on youth leadership in promoting informed citizenship, encouraging students to act as advocates for transparency, accountability, and equitable access to public services.
