Central Secretariat Service Officers Rally Against Promotion Delays: Urgent Action Demanded on Cadre Review Report
New Delhi, 07-03-2024 : In a demonstration of solidarity and urgency, a significant number of Central Secretariat Service (CSS) officers gathered outside the Shastri Bhawan, registering their discontent over the prolonged delay in the submission of a crucial report by a cadre review committee, which directly impacts their promotions. The protest, held during lunchtime, saw the participation of over 2,500 officers, unified in their demand for timely action to address their grievances.
Udit Arya, President of the CSS Forum, an association representing CSS officers, highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the officers are facing significant setbacks due to the delay in the submission of the cadre review committee’s report. Arya announced plans for a subsequent march scheduled for March 11th at Nirman Bhawan, expecting an even larger turnout of around 5,000 officers.
The genesis of the officers’ discontent lies in the establishment of a high-level cadre review committee by the central government on October 27, 2022, tasked with evaluating the increasing demands for manpower across various ministries and departments. The committee was mandated to propose measures for efficient cadre management and facilitate the career progression of CSS staff members. Despite assurances, the CSS officers are yet to witness tangible progress in the submission and implementation of the committee’s report.
Arya reiterated the officers’ stance, emphasizing that their demands are centered around expediting the submission and execution of the cadre review committee’s recommendations. Expressing optimism, he appealed to the Hon’ble Prime Minister to intervene in the matter and direct concerned officials to expedite the process, underscoring the critical importance of timely action.
In a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), the CSS Forum warned of escalating action if their concerns remain unaddressed. The association highlighted the significant shortage of manpower faced by several government departments, leading to operational disruptions and hampering official duties. With the CSS officers serving as the backbone of the central government machinery, the delay in addressing their grievances poses a formidable challenge to efficient governance and delivery of public services.
As the officers await a resolution to their longstanding issues, the urgency of their demands grows more pronounced. Swift action on the cadre review committee’s report is imperative to alleviate the manpower shortage plaguing government departments and restore the smooth functioning of administrative processes.
