The Government of Telangana has issued new directives regarding the transfer and posting of public service employees, effective from August 1, 2024. This move comes as part of a series of orders aimed at streamlining administrative processes and ensuring optimal workforce distribution across various departments. Below are the comprehensive details of the new guidelines.
Overview of the Transfer Ban
As per the recent order (G.O.Ms.No.87, Finance (HRM-I) Department, dated 31-07-2024), the Telangana government has reinstated a ban on employee transfers. This decision follows the temporary relaxation of the transfer ban, which was in place from July 5, 2024, to July 31, 2024. The ban is now back in effect with specific exceptions outlined to address various administrative needs.
Specific Exceptions to the Transfer Ban
The order specifies several circumstances under which transfers can still occur, ensuring that essential administrative functions continue without disruption:
- Promotions: Employees receiving promotions will be posted to existing vacant positions without displacing current employees.
- Administrative Adjustments: Transfers due to disbandment of posts, reversions, repatriations, and deputations (on Foreign Service only) are permitted. Additionally, transfers resulting from disciplinary proceedings will also be accommodated, provided they fill clear vacancies without shifting other employees.
- Return from Extended Leave: Employees returning from a leave period exceeding six months will be assigned to clear existing vacancies. Vacancies arising from leaves up to six months will not be filled via transfers.
Authority and Process for Issuing Posting Orders
The authority to issue posting orders under the aforementioned exceptions lies with the appointing authority, which can act without referring to the Finance Department. This measure is intended to expedite necessary postings and ensure administrative efficiency.
No Relaxation Proposals for Six Months
For six months starting from August 1, 2024, no proposals for relaxation of the transfer ban will be considered by any department. Post this period, any relaxation requests must go through a detailed approval process involving the Secretary Finance, Chief Secretary, relevant Minister, and the Finance Minister, ultimately requiring the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s consent.
Filling Existing Vacancies for Administrative Efficiency
Existing vacancies needed for administrative efficiency will be filled with employees who have completed at least one year of active service at their current station. Proper justification must be submitted for these proposals to gain the Finance Department’s concurrence.
Continuation of Previous Orders
The new order reaffirms the continuation of previous orders issued under:
- G.O.Ms.No.23, Finance (W&M) Department, dated 23-01-2008
- G.O.Ms.No.7, Finance (DCM-III) Department, dated 24-01-2011
- G.O.Ms.No.182, General Administration (SPF-MC) Department, dated 21-05-2016
All proposed actions under these orders must receive the Finance Department’s approval to ensure compliance.
Compliance and Accountability
To enforce these regulations, the Director of Treasuries & Accounts, Pay and Accounts Officer, and Director of Works Accounts in Telangana State, Hyderabad, are instructed not to admit pay bills for employees whose transfers deviate from the stipulated orders. All Secretariat Departments and Heads of Departments are mandated to adhere strictly to these guidelines.
Conclusion
The Telangana government’s reinstatement of the transfer ban, with its clearly defined exceptions, underscores a commitment to maintaining administrative order and efficiency. By laying out specific conditions and streamlining the approval process for necessary transfers, the government aims to balance the need for flexibility in workforce management with the imperative of minimizing disruptions.
These measures are crucial for ensuring that the administrative machinery functions smoothly, and all departments are expected to comply rigorously with the new directives to maintain organizational integrity and efficiency.
