In a strict move to enforce discipline, the Punjab State Tax Department has terminated the services of four of its employees who remained on unauthorised leave for periods extending up to three years. The action, ordered by State Tax Commissioner Jatinder Jorwal on Thursday, invokes the "deemed resignation" clause against the absent staff.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Towards Absenteeism
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema underscored the government's firm stance, stating that public service demands dedication and physical presence. The administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards indiscipline and neglect of duty. He clarified that employees who stay absent without authorisation for years, even after multiple chances to explain themselves, have no place in the government system.
Details of the Terminated Employees
The department followed a rigorous inquiry process under Rule 8 of the Punjab Civil Services (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1970, before taking the final step. The four individuals include three Excise and Taxation Inspectors and one clerk.
One Inspector posted in Jalandhar-2 had been absent since March 15, 2023, after his leave application was turned down by superiors. Another Inspector was continuously absent from his duties starting June 24, 2023, and failed to report to his headquarters or give a satisfactory explanation, despite being under suspension.
The case of an Inspector from the Ropar range dates back to May 29, 2021, after his approved foreign leave ended. Although he cited medical reasons and heart surgery, independent probes found him negligent. He did not join official investigations, even through virtual means.
A clerk working in the Jalandhar audit wing also faced termination for not reporting to work since September 11, 2023, following the non-approval of his request for ex-India leave.
Consequences: No Pension or Benefits
The department applied finance department instructions dated March 13, 2025, which state that any employee absent without sanctioned leave for over a year shall be considered to have resigned. A critical consequence of this "deemed resignation" is that the individuals will not receive gratuity, pension, or any other service-related benefits.
An official noted that while some employees initially cited family or health issues, they ultimately failed to resume duties within the legally allowed time frame, leading to the final administrative orders. This decisive action sends a clear message about the state's commitment to accountability in public service.
