The Gujarat education department has taken a firm stand against the use of political clout and external pressure in transfer matters within government colleges. Issuing a strict circular from Ahmedabad, the department has warned all teaching and non-teaching staff that seeking transfers through influence will invite serious disciplinary consequences.
Strict Guidelines to Curb Undue Influence
The department's directive makes it unequivocally clear that any employee found using political connections, influential individuals, or non-governmental intermediaries to block or secure a transfer will face action. This conduct will be treated as a violation of the Gujarat State Service (Conduct) Rules, 1971. Officials stated that such practices have been causing administrative delays and disrupting the smooth functioning of government offices.
Despite a government resolution issued in 2005 to curb this tendency, complaints have persisted over the years. The new circular is a reiteration and strengthening of those guidelines. It mandates that all service-related representations, including transfer requests, must be submitted with proper justification and documents through the head of the concerned office. Only after the competent authority's review should such proposals move to the education department.
Consequences for Violating the Rules
The circular specifies the severe repercussions for bypassing official channels. If any officer or employee seeks a transfer to a specific place using the influence of Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), or any other political or non-government person, strict action will follow.
Such actions will be deemed a breach of Rules 3(3) and 23 of the Gujarat State Service (Conduct) Rules, 1971. The process will involve seeking an explanation from the employee. If the explanation is found unsatisfactory, disciplinary proceedings under Rule 6 may be initiated. Furthermore, adverse remarks will be recorded in the employee's confidential report (CR), which can impact future career prospects.
Calls for Transparent and Uniform Implementation
While several professors have welcomed the department's decisive circular, they have also highlighted a persistent ground reality. Some pointed out that staff members with strong connections have historically managed to remain posted at the same colleges for years, circumventing the typical three-year transfer cycle.
These educators have urged the government to ensure the uniform and transparent implementation of transfer policies. The success of this directive, they argue, hinges on its consistent application, making the system fair and effective for all employees, regardless of their political or external influence.
