The Odisha government has introduced a new rule requiring Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers to obtain prior approval from the Chief Secretary before taking leave or leaving their headquarters. The decision, announced in a notification issued by the General Administration and Public Grievance Department on Saturday, aims to address concerns over unauthorized absences that have disrupted administrative work and public service delivery.
Why the New Rule?
The move comes after reports revealed that several IAS officers were taking leave or leaving their assigned headquarters without proper authorization. Such unauthorized absences have caused significant disruptions in governance and delayed important administrative tasks. The state government has taken a strict stance on the issue to enforce discipline and ensure accountability among its officers.
What Does the Notification Say?
The notification states that all IAS officers in Odisha must now seek prior permission from the Chief Secretary before availing leave or leaving their headquarters. It emphasizes that unauthorized absences have led to “unavoidable dislocation of official work,” affecting the efficiency of public service delivery.
The notification reads:
“It has come to the notice that in some cases, officers are availing leave or leaving headquarters without obtaining prior permission from the Chief Secretary. This results in unavoidable dislocation of official work. It is therefore decided that prior permission of the Chief Secretary shall be mandatory for all IAS officers of the state while availing leaves as well as headquarter leaving permissions.”
Strict Action for Violations
The state administration has warned that any IAS officer found violating this rule will face strict action. The government expects all officers to follow the new guidelines diligently and ensure they obtain the necessary approvals before taking leave or leaving their headquarters.
Goal: Better Governance and Accountability
The directive is part of the Odisha government’s efforts to improve governance and ensure that administrative functions run smoothly. By requiring prior approval for leave, the government aims to minimize disruptions and maintain continuity in public service delivery.
What’s Next?
The new rule is effective immediately, and all IAS officers in the state are expected to comply. The government has emphasized that this step is crucial for maintaining discipline and accountability within the bureaucratic setup.
This move highlights the state’s commitment to ensuring efficient administration and addressing issues that hinder public service delivery. It also underscores the importance of accountability among senior officials in maintaining the smooth functioning of government operations.
