In a recent high-level meeting led by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, the Government of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has announced plans for significant improvements in the “Delegation of Powers” and the “Transaction of Business Rules.” The Chief Secretary emphasized the need for expeditious disposal of official files across all departments and directed officials to ensure minimal delays.
The General Administration Department has been instructed to form a committee comprising Administrative Secretaries of Jal Shakti, Finance, and General Administration Departments. This committee will assess the current “Delegation of Powers” and “Transaction of Business Rules” and propose necessary enhancements. The Chief Secretary, if required, will present these recommendations to the Lieutenant Governor for approval.
Under Section 67 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, the Lieutenant Governor has the authority to delegate powers to Administrative Secretaries and Heads of Departments. The ongoing efforts aim to streamline administrative processes and empower officials at various levels.
The “Rules for Transaction of Business” were notified in August 2020, outlining work allocation, department responsibilities, and powers distribution. The Chief Secretary emphasized that any material departure from these rules should be promptly reported to the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary.
Addressing concerns about the lack of awareness among officers regarding suspension, penalty proceedings, and inquiries, the Chief Secretary proposed the revival of the office of Commissioner Enquiries. This office would focus on conducting departmental inquiries efficiently and recommending actions against delinquent employees.
The Commissioner of Enquiries, a position within the administrative set-up, would handle departmental inquiries into allegations of misconduct under the Jammu and Kashmir Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971, for state government employees and under All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, for IAS/IPS officers.
Additionally, the meeting discussed the possibility of making the Regular Departmental Action (RDA) portal accessible to all Heads of Departments, further enhancing transparency and accountability in administrative processes.
These proposed reforms underscore the government’s commitment to improving efficiency, accountability, and transparency in its administrative functions.
