Imposition of fine for non-provision or delayed services

(1) Every Competent Authority shall identify the Designated Official for processing of individual applications received in accordance with the rules made under this Act.

(2) All grievances shall be initially examined by the notified Grievance Redressal Authority and where the Grievance Redressal Authority is of the opinion that the Designated Official of the Competent Authority has failed to meet committed service levels without sufficient and reasonable cause, a fine not exceeding twenty-five thousand rupees may be imposed on the Designated Official:

Provided that the Designated Official of the Competent Authority shall be given a reasonable opportunity of being heard before any fine is imposed.

(3) Any fine imposed under sub-section (2) shall be collected in such manner as may be prescribed and shall be in addition to any other recourse available to the Government or the Competent Authority under applicable Service Rules:

Provided that no fine shall be imposed on the Designated Official of the Competent Authority more than once for the same case of non-provision or delay in provision of services.