The Electronic Delivery of Services Bill, 2011 requires public authorities to deliver all public services electronically within a maximum period of eight years. However, there are two exceptions to this requirement: (a) services that cannot be delivered electronically; and (b) services that public authorities, in consultation with the Commissions, decide not to deliver electronically.
The salient features of this bill are as follows:
(i) Establishment of Central and State Electronic Service Delivery Commissions: The Bill establishes Central and State Electronic Service Delivery Commissions to monitor compliance of government departments, and hear representations.
(ii) Mechanism to redress complaints: Public authorities have to establish a mechanism to redress complaints. Complaints may be for: (a) non-delivery of services in an electronic form; or (b) deficiency in the electronic service provided. In the first case, a representation may be made against the mechanism’s orders before the Commission.
(iii) Penal Provisions: A maximum penalty of Rs 5,000 may be imposed on a defaulting officer by the Central and State Commissions.