Bhubaneswar: In a bid to streamline the functioning of Cabinet meetings, the Odisha Government has issued a circular outlining the role of Secretaries during such meetings. As per the circular, Secretaries are not permitted to participate in Cabinet discussions unless specifically required or permitted.
The circular, issued by Additional Chief Secretary Surendra Kumar of the Parliamentary Affairs Department, lays down strict guidelines for submitting Cabinet Memoranda and related documents. These documents must be submitted at least three working days in advance, except with the permission of the Chief Minister.
As per the circular, secretaries are not to be present in the Cabinet Room during meetings unless their case is under discussion.
Even when their case is being discussed, Secretaries are required to sit separately and enter the Cabinet Room only when required. Once a decision is taken, the concerned Minister is responsible for ensuring its implementation.
While the circular tightens procedural control and limits the secretarial presence and influence during Cabinet meetings, it clarifies that the statutory powers of Secretaries under the Rules of Business remain unchanged.
