CBEC - Transfer of Commissioners and above - Full Board being bypassed?
IN DDT 1759 - 23.12.2011, we reported,
As per the Transfer Policy, the Placement Committee will be the final authority for transfer of officers below the rank of Commissioner, provided the case falls within the purview of the existing guidelines. The Placement Committee consists of the Chairman, Member (P&V) and one Member nominated by the Chairman on rotation for a period of six months.
However transfer of Commissioners and Chief Commissioners are decided by the Full Board and sent for the approval of the Finance Minister through Revenue Secretary and MoS. Members in charge of Zones are likely to know the Commissioners and Chief Commissioners better and so their views are perhaps important in making transfers of senior officers.
Now, it seems the Board is contemplating a change in the scheme with the fate of Commissioners and Chief Commissioners also to be decided by the Placement Committee instead of by the Full Board. Is it because the powers that be are not confident of getting the support from all or some Members of the Board for their proposals?
Exactly a week later, we understand that the Finance Minister has approved the Board proposal and now all transfers in CBEC [from Assistant Commissioner and above] will be decided by the placement committee and the Members of the Board who are not in the Committee will have no say in transfers. Will this not undermine the status and stature of the Board and its Members?