The government has unveiled a draft bill to address the grievances of citizens in a time bound manner.

Briefing reporters in New Delhi on Wednesday, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, V. Narayanswamy said that the bill provides for setting up of Citizens Charter in all government organisations, Ministries and Departments, Public Sector Undertakings and Panchayats and all other institutions.

Mr Narayanswamy said, any organisation, not addressing the complaints within a stipulated time period, will face penalties. He said, the proposed legislation will empower the citizens to question the delay in services.

Over five lakh Grievance Redressal Officers, GROs will be appointed at different levels to address consumer grievances. The GRO will have to file Action Taken Report within 15 days of receiving the complaints.

Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh said that the government may bring the bill in the Winter Session of Parliament. He said, the proposed legislation is a part of the five fold legal infrastructure to fight corruption. Mr Ramesh said that it will make Citizens Charter a statutory instrument.