RESIDENTS DEMAND CLARITY OF SDM JURISDICTION

The South West District Administration continues to strengthen citizen-centric governance through its four Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) offices located in Najafgarh, Dwarka, Matiala and Bijwasan. These offices play a crucial role in implementing government policies, managing revenue matters, coordinating administrative functions and ensuring the effective delivery of public services across the district. 

The Najafgarh Sub-Division is headed by Dr. Sunabh Singh, while the Dwarka Sub-Division functions under the leadership of Pankaj Roy Gupta. The Matiala Sub-Division is headed by Ms. Anuja Trivedi, IAS and the Bijwasan Sub-Division is led by Ms. Ruchi Jain.

The SDM offices are responsible for a wide range of public services, including the issuance of domicile, caste, income and other certificates, maintenance of revenue records, land-related matters, election duties, disaster management, public grievance redressalBand coordination with various government departments. These offices serve as a vital link between the district administration and the public.

While the administration continues to focus on transparency, accountability and efficient governance, many residents of Dwarka have expressed confusion regarding the jurisdiction of different SDM offices and the authority responsible for addressing issues in their respective sectors.

A recent incident during the Bakrid festival highlighted this concern. Residents of Shahjahanabad Society approached the SDM office in Sector-10, Dwarka, seeking assistance with a local issue. They were informed that their area did not fall under that office’s jurisdiction. Subsequently, when they attempted to contact the SDM responsible for the Matiala area, they learned that the concerned office operates from Kapasherra.

“The recent administrative changes concerning Dwarka have created considerable confusion among residents. Dividing Dwarka politically as well as in revenue administration is likely to make governance and public service delivery more complicated. Citizens may face difficulties in accessing government services and determining the appropriate authorities for their concerns. This matter requires the urgent attention of the Delhi Government to ensure clarity and administrative efficiency. For the benefit of residents and for better governance, Dwarka should remain a single Assembly constituency, a single revenue district, and be served by one Sub-Registrar office under a unified administrative structure.”

Sudha Sinha, Former President

Federation of CGHS

Such situations have led to uncertainty among residents about which SDM office serves their locality, where the concerned office is located and whom they should contact for administrative assistance or grievance redressal. Residents have suggested that the district administration publish a clear sector-wise jurisdiction map along with the addresses and contact details of all SDM offices. Making this information available through official websites, social media platforms, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and public information boards would help citizens reach the appropriate authority without unnecessary delays.

Clear communication regarding SDM jurisdictions would further strengthen public trust and enhance the efficiency of service delivery across the district.