Bhubaneswar/Berhampur, May 1:
Despite the State Government’s clear transfer policy for officials and employees, concerns are rising over its poor implementation at the departmental level. Allegations suggest that several departmental secretaries are not enforcing the rules, allowing officers to remain posted in the same district for unusually long periods.
Sources indicate that many officials continue to serve in their home districts for years, in violation of prescribed transfer norms. This has raised questions about administrative oversight and transparency, with critics warning that prolonged postings may encourage inefficiency and corruption.
In the Housing and Urban Development Department, it is alleged that senior authorities, including the Departmental Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary, have not ensured proper monitoring of officers’ tenures. There appears to be a lack of updated records regarding how long officials have been serving in specific locations.
One such case cited is that of WATCO General Manager Bikash Chandra Padhi, a resident of Berhampur, who has reportedly been serving in Berhampur for nearly eight out of his ten years of service. Despite exceeding the usual tenure limits, no transfer action has been taken so far.
The situation has triggered concerns among the public, with calls for strict enforcement of transfer policies to ensure accountability and prevent administrative irregularities.
