To prioritize accountability in public service and deter corruption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday reportedly asked the Union ministers and secretaries to conduct a proper assessment of the performance of all government employees. This directive aligns with the Fundamental Rule 56(j) of the CCS (Pension) Rules which allows for the retirement of the government servant deemed unfit for service in the ‘public interest.’

Performance Assessment And Retirement Rules

In a recent meeting with union ministers and secretaries, held shortly after BJP’s stupendous victory in the Haryana assembly election, PM Modi emphasized rigorous assessment of employees. According to sources, the process requires a three-month notice or payment in case of compulsory retirement. Employees aged 55 could be affected by the rules. Additionally, Rule 48 states that after completion of 30 years of qualifying service, a government employee may be required to retire in the public interest.

The government has already retired over 500 officers with these provisions, as per sources. “The PM’s message was clear that government employees need to perform, address people’s issues and ensure ease of living. Though departments are taking action against deadwoods, there is a need to do more,” TOI quotes sources as saying.

Addressing Public Grievances

Listing the do’s for ministers and secretaries while addressing them, PM Modi said while handling public grievances, officials must ensure quick redressal of each grievance.

For this purpose, Modi suggested that secretaries devote one day of the week exclusively to redressing the grievances and asked ministers of state to specifically monitor such issues.