A lobby ‘conspires’ against Assam Civil Service officials

A lobby ‘conspires’ against Assam Civil Service officials

* Seeks amendment to Assam Civil Services Rules 2015

* Targets promotional prospects of local officials

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, July 16: A Dispur-based IAS (Indian Administrative Service) lobby is allegedly conspiring to stall the promotional prospects of senior ACS (Assam Civil Service) officers. As a consequence thereof, resentment is brewing among the local administrative officials.

The IAS coterie is planning to go about its plan by bringing about certain changes in the Assam Civil Services Rules 2015. According to sources, a few IAS officials without consulting the Assam Civil Service Officers’ Association have already briefed Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and sought amendment to the Assam Civil Services Rules 2015 on the basis of ROP (Revision of Pay). However, they have reportedly kept the Chief Minister in the dark as to its adverse effects on the senior ACS officials.

Once the amendment comes into effect, most of the senior ACS officers of the 1992, 1993 and 1995 batches would retire by the time they reach the Additional Secretary’s post only. The officials of these batches had to wait from 17 to 21 years to reach the rank of ADC or Deputy Secretary from their date of joining.

What is more, many among the local administrative officers would fail to reach even the Secretary level.

During the time of the previous government, a cadre-review was undertaken by the then Additional Chief Secretary Subhash Chandra Das. As per the cadre-review of ACS officers, 30 secretary-level posts were reserved for them. This move served as a promotional shield for the local officers.

However, if the proposed amendment is brought about, then a minimum of six years (from the date of holding of post) would be required for an ACS officer to be promoted from the post of Circle Officer to that of ADC or Deputy Secretary. Similarly, there would be a gestation period of six years for an ADC/Deputy Secretary to become Joint Secretary; and seven years for an ACS officer of the Joint secretary level to become Additional Secretary.

In other words, many senior ACS officials would not be able to hold those posts that call for decision making at the government level.

Against this backdrop, it is of utmost necessity that a proper review is carried out prior to bringing about any amendment to the Assam Civil Services Rules 2015.

Meanwhile, members of the Assam Civil Service Officers’ Association on Monday evening met the Chief Minister and apprised him of the adverse effects that the proposed amendment to the Assam Civil Services Rules 2015 might have on their promotional prospects. Chief Minister Sonowal assured the delegation that all steps would be taken to protect the interest of the ACS officials.

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