Foreign posting – CBEC all ready to mess up again?
Some time back we had carried the story of how CBEC messed up recommending a name for a top slot in the World Customs Organisation. Without even circulating the details, the CBEC almost got the Revenue Secretary to forward a name. When we pointed out that no names were called for, a quick damage control exercise was done and CBEC quickly called for names and finally sent two names ( WCO wanted only one name) after the WCO had finalized the appointment – telling the world that the Indian Customs is not capable of sending a name and that too on time! When it comes to the prestige of the nation, the CBEC had been working overtime to ensure that it is always down.
The Chairman, CBEC who is to retire soon had created a name for himself in trying to collect huge revenue from pan masala units, has somehow been not exactly successful on the foreign posting front.
Now there is a vacancy for the post of Minister (Customs) in the WTO wing at Geneva . We are told that the Chairman has already recommended a couple of names and the file is already with the Revenue Secretary. But the Board (other than the Chairman that is) is not aware of this. There seems to be no selection, let alone a selection committee.
Even if justice is not done, it should at least appear to be done.