Odisha Cracks Down on Influence-Peddling in Government Transfers

The Odisha government has enforced a ban on employees leveraging influence for favorable transfers or postings, citing violations of conduct rules. A letter by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted the need for integrity and adherence to established procedures in administrative processes to prevent misconduct.

The Odisha government has sternly prohibited its employees from using any influence to secure desirable transfers or postings. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja communicated this directive to departmental secretaries, emphasizing adherence to conduct rules and administrative fairness.

Ahuja's letter highlighted violations wherein employees exert influence for personal gains, contrary to the Odisha Government Servants' Conduct Rules, 1959. This rule forbids officials from applying undue influence to alter their service conditions.

Transfers and postings are determined by administrative needs, merit, and protocol, Ahuja stated, warning that any deviation would be met with disciplinary action. Departmental secretaries and district collectors are tasked with ensuring compliance and discouraging such malpractice.