Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has issued strict instructions to all state government departments to rigorously implement the 2019 circular regarding premature retirement of government employees with doubtful integrity or inefficiency. The directive aims to cleanse the administration of non-performing and corrupt officials to ensure efficient governance.
In a letter to all departmental Secretaries, Ahuja emphasized the need for strict adherence to Circular No. 27037 dated September 24, 2019, issued by the General Administration & Public Grievance Department. This circular, framed under Rule 71(a) of the Odisha Service Code, provides the legal framework for compulsory retirement of employees found lacking in integrity or performance.
The Chief Secretary expressed concern that many departments have failed to conduct regular review meetings as mandated, allowing incompetent and allegedly corrupt officials to continue in service. This lapse has not only affected administrative efficiency but has also compromised public interest, the communication stated.
Ahuja has directed all Secretaries to ensure that periodic review meetings are conducted without fail to identify employees who should be considered for premature retirement. Heads of Departments have been instructed to submit their recommendations promptly following these reviews.
The Chief Secretary has also asked departmental Secretaries to personally monitor compliance and submit progress reports.
This move comes against the backdrop of growing concerns about bureaucratic inefficiency and corruption in state administration. While the 2019 circular was designed to systematically remove underperforming officials, its poor implementation has undermined its effectiveness.
The Chief Secretary’s intervention signals the state government’s renewed commitment to clean and efficient governance. By enforcing strict compliance with the premature retirement policy, the administration aims to retain only competent and honest employees in service. The directive is expected to bring about significant improvements in administrative efficiency and service delivery across various government departments in Odisha.
Officials familiar with the matter indicate that this could lead to a major administrative overhaul, with several non-performing employees likely to face action in the coming months. The state government’s firm stance on this issue reflects its determination to improve governance and restore public trust in the system.
