Telecom Dept Warns Employees Against Political Influence

New Delhi, Jun 18 (PTI) The Department of Telecom has warned its employees against using political or external influence for service related matters, according to an office memorandum issued on Wednesday.

The memorandum said that reference from Member of Parliaments or any other dignitaries will be presumed that it has been sought by the employees and the matter will be dealt as per service rules.

"It has been observed that some government servants are attempting to influence service-related decisions, particularly transfers and postings, by soliciting political or external support, including through relatives or wards. This is a violation of Rule 20 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which expressly prohibits bringing or attempting to bring political or outside influence in such matters," the memorandum said.

The memorandum reminded employees of the government's decisions under Rule 20. A first-time violation invites formal advice, a second breach results in a written warning to be placed on record and further violations call for disciplinary proceedings under the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965.

"All ITS officers are hereby advised to refrain from any such practice and not to bring political and other outside influence directly or through their relative/ wards to further their service matters particularly in the matter of transfers/ posting," the memorandum said.

DoT has advised employees to seek redressal through prescribed official channels only.

"Any instance of violation of these rules/ orders would be viewed very seriously and the officers/officials responsible for such violation would attract strict disciplinary action," the memorandum said.