Request for Revision of Honorarium for Inquiry Officers and Presenting Officers under Rule-10 of GDS Conduct & Engagement Rules 2020
Introduction The All India Association of Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents of Posts (AIAIASP) has formally addressed the Department of Posts, highlighting the need for revising the honorarium rates for Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents of Posts serving as Inquiry Officers (IO) and Presenting Officers (PO) under Rule-10 of the GDS Conduct & Engagement Rules, 2020.
Background The Directorate of Posts had previously revised the honorarium rates for IOs and POs through its letters dated 29.12.2014 and 16.01.2023. The earlier rates had been updated progressively:
15.06.1990: IO: ₹100-₹400 | PO: ₹50-₹200
23.08.2005: IO: ₹400-₹1600 | PO: ₹250-₹500
29.12.2014: IO: ₹3000-₹6000 | PO: ₹3000-₹6000
Despite these revisions, the association observed significant inconsistencies in the disbursement of honorarium across various postal circles. In several cases, IOs and POs were sanctioned only the minimum amount of ₹3000, and in some instances, even lower amounts were disbursed, regardless of the complexity or volume of work involved.
Key Concerns
Uniformity Across Rules: The duties performed by IOs and POs in GDS (Rule-10B) inquiries mirror those conducted under Rule-14 of the CCS (CCA) Rules. However, there exists a disparity in honorarium structures between the two.
Workload and Responsibilities: IOs and POs often manage voluminous documentation and multiple witness examinations, warranting appropriate compensation.
Recent CVC and DOPT Guidelines: Recent orders issued by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Department of Personnel & Training (DOPT) have revised the honorarium rates for departmental inquiries:
Inquiry Officer: 15% of Basic Pay
Presenting Officer: 10% of Basic Pay
Association's Request The AIAIASP emphasizes the need for parity between departmental inquiries and Rule-10 (GDS Conduct & Engagement Rules) inquiries. They propose the following:
Revision of Honorarium Rates: Align the honorarium for IOs and POs in Rule-10 inquiries with the rates applicable for departmental inquiries.
Implementation of Uniform Guidelines: Ensure consistency across all postal circles in determining and disbursing honorarium.
Conclusion The association earnestly urges the Department of Posts to consider the revision of honorarium rates for Inquiry Officers and Presenting Officers under Rule-10 of the GDS Conduct & Engagement Rules, aligning them with departmental inquiry standards. This measure would not only ensure fairness but also recognize the critical role played by these officers in upholding administrative accountability and integrity.
Contact Information:
President: Shri Vikas Sharma | 9417226661
General Secretary: Shri P. Vara Prasad | 9177434534 | pvaram71@gmail.com
Financial Secretary: Shri Sharad Wangkar | 9860054638
