Russian President Dmitry Medvedev proposed on Monday punishing officials who fail to answer citizens' complaints in a timely manner.
"We must take measures to ensure that these complaints are met with a direct reaction from officials and that any delays or refusals to act are punished," Medvedev said.
"Even if a problem cannot be solved immediately, they [officials] should explain to people why instead of simply brushing the problems aside," he said.
The president also said that electronic platforms for complaints would be set up for 48 Russian regions in order to simplify the overall procedure.
The move is part of a recent drive to modernize Russia's complicated bureaucratic procedures. Proposals have also been made to allow residence registration via the Internet and voting by text in national elections.
MOSCOW, Novosti 22 (RIA Novosti)
