DoP :: Strike Ballot on November 21-22, 2023 by Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS)

DoP :: Strike Ballot on November 21-22, 2023 by Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS)

No.10/4/2022_SR-DOP-Part (2) dtd.14-11-2023

SR-10/4/2022-SR-DOP-Part(2)

Government of India 

Ministry of Communications

Department of Posts (SR Section)

Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg New Delhi-110001 

Dated: 14/11/2023

To

ADI

All Heads of Postal Circles

Subject: 'Strike Ballot' on November 21-22, 2023 by Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS)

Sir,

The undersigned is directed to inform that the Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS) plans to hold 'Strike Ballot' on November 21-22, 2023 for launching nation-wide indefinite strike. Besides, JFROPS in consultation with Central Trade Unions and like-minded organizations, intends to organize 'Bharat Bandh' during the course of the strike. Though the proposed programme is likely to remain peaceful, precautionary security arrangements are required at protest venues to avoid any untoward incident

2.In this regard, it is to bring to kind notice that the instructions issued by the Department of Personnel & Training prohibit the Government servants from participating in any form of strike including mass casual leave, go slow etc. or any action that abets any form of strike in violation of Rule 7 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964. Besides, in accordance with the provision to Rule 17 (1) of the Fundamental Rules, pay and allowances are not admissible to an employee for his/her absence from duty without any authority. The Supreme Court has also agreed in several judgments that going on strike is a grave misconduct under the Conduct Rules and that misconduct by the Government employees is required to be dealt with in accordance with the law. Any employee going on strike in any form would face the consequences which, besides deduction of wages, may also include appropriate disciplinary action. In this connection, attention is also invited to DOP&T's O.M. No. 33012/1(s)/2008-Estt (B) (pt) dated 12th September, 2008.

3.In view of the above, it is requested that aforesaid instructions under Conduct Rules issued by the DOP&T and other regulations upheld by the Hon'ble Supreme Court may, therefore, be suitably informed to the Central Government employees working in the Circles. Necessary instructions not to sanction Special Casual Leave or other kind of leave to employees if applied for, during the period of the proposed strike/dharna/demonstration and ensure that the willing employees are allowed hindrance free entry into the office premises may be issued. Necessary steps may also be taken as per the instructions issued under Contingency Plan vide this office letter No. 08-01/2019-SR dated 03.05.2019 for handling the strike/dharna/demonstration situation. The GDS may also invite action in terms of provisions contained in GDS (Service and Conduct), Rules. The staff may also be apprised of the fact that the Department is committed to consider the issues raised by federation within the framework of the existing rules and instructions of the Government of India / Department of Posts.

4.This may please be given wide circulation at all levels. The receipt of this letter may also be acknowledged.

Yours faithfully.

(Sushi Bhushan)

Copy for necessary action to: 

1. CGM BD/ Parcel Directorate 

2. CGM, PLI Directorate

3. Secretary (PSB)

4. ADG (Admin)

5. ADG (GA)

Director (SR & Legal)