Using DO for transfer requests breach of code of conduct: Public admin ministry

The public administration ministry has warned government officials that using a demi-official (DO) letter from an adviser, senior secretary, secretary, or others for transfer requests, or making such requests verbally, will be considered a violation of the code of conduct.

In an order issued today, the ministry stated that the transfer or posting of deputy secretaries and non-cadre officers from the administrative cadre and other cadres working in various ministries, departments, and organisations is carried out by the public administration ministry in accordance with the rules of business. 

"Recently, it has been observed that some officers are requesting transfers through semi-official letters or verbally from advisers, senior secretaries, secretaries, and other officials according to their preference," the order reads. 

"This is an offence under Section 20 of the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1979." 

Section 20 of the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1979 states: "A government servant shall not approach any member of parliament or any other private person, directly or indirectly, with any request or proposal to intervene on his behalf in any matter." 

According to sources in the public administration ministry, following the 5 August political changeover last year, the interim government has initiated efforts to reorganise public administration and implement necessary reforms. 

"As part of this, numerous transfers, promotions, and postings have been carried out or are in progress. However, many officials are not adhering to the public administration's decisions," a source told The Business Standard, on the condition of anonymity. 

"Some are not joining their new postings after transfer orders and are using DOs or making verbal requests to return to their previous positions or choose preferred locations. This undermines the principle of equal public service across institutions."