TN govt fixes deadlines for disciplinary proceedings against officials

To end the delays in disciplinary proceedings, particularly in vigilance cases, the Tamil Nadu govt has prescribed mandatory timelines for every stage of action — from DVAC investigations and departmental inquiries to the issuance of final orders.

Authorities responsible for avoidable delays have been warned of disciplinary action.The order, issued by human resources management department, follows directions from Madras high court, which had flagged prolonged disciplinary proceedings and the continued suspension of govt employees for years without conclusion. “The times were already there, we have now made few changes,” said an official from the department.In vigilance matters, departments have up to 80 days, including two months for scrutiny by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) and another 20 days for the disciplinary authority to take a final call.

Separate timelines have been laid down for vigilance investigations. Trap cases must be investigated and the draft final report submitted within three months of registration.Cases involving misappropriation and other criminal misconduct must be completed within 9 months, while disproportionate assets cases are subject to a 1-year limit. Once the investigation is over, prosecution sanction must be obtained within four months, including the permissible extension, and the chargesheet filed before the court within a month.

The order mandates final orders within 20 days of the inquiry report in non-vigilance cases. It reiterates that suspension cannot be indefinite. It further prescribes a one-year timeline for inquiries conducted by the Tribunal for Disciplinary Proceedings. The govt or the head of the department must issue final orders within four months of receiving the tribunal’s report. For departmental proceedings, authorities other than the govt must issue final orders within seven days of the inquiry being completed.

Secretariat departments requiring inter-departmental consultation have been given 30 days.G Venkatesan, president, TN secretariat association, said this is a welcome move. “Justice delayed is justice denied. Usually the departments don’t appoint an enquiry officer. Even if appointed they won’t submit report on time,” he said.