HP Government Lifts Ban on Employee Transfers

Shimla, August 22: The Congress-led Sukhhu government in Himachal Pradesh has lifted the ban on transfers of government employees. As per the issued notification by the administration, the ban on transfers of Class 3 and Class 4 employees has been lifted.

The transfers of these employees will take place between August 21 and August 31, and then again from September 20 to September 30. Earlier, the transfers were only allowed during the last four working days of the month. However, a fresh ban on transfers will be imposed from October 1.

The notification stated that the respective department ministers will also be authorized to facilitate the transfers of employees. Prior to this, only the Chief Minister had the authority to issue transfer orders. The notification also mentions that consideration will be given to applications of employees completing 3 years of service, but if administrative needs arise, even those completing 2 years at a station will be eligible for transfers. These transfers will not exceed 3% of the total cadre.

If the application for transfer does not adhere to the Comprehensive Guiding Principle of 2013, it will need to be referred to the Chief Minister for approval. While issuing transfer orders, department heads will also ensure that employees engaged in disaster relief and rehabilitation activities are not transferred. All administrative secretaries, department heads, divisional commissioners, and district deputy commissioners have received these directives from the administration.

It’s worth noting that the Sukhhu government had implemented stringent measures regarding employee transfers and had issued orders in June that all matters related to the posting and transfers of government employees in various departments will only be considered during the last four working days of each month.