The Office Memorandum (OM) No. 11013/10/93-Estt. A dated 06/10/1993 from the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, emphasizes a critical aspect of public service: the need for independence and impartiality among Government servants. The memorandum reminds officials that integrity and impartiality are not only essential for good governance but are also pivotal for maintaining public trust.
Key Points of the OM:
- Reiteration of Previous Instructions (1955 OM): The 1993 OM refers to an earlier instruction issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 1955. That document highlighted the necessity for Government servants—particularly those in positions of trust and responsibility—to act with honesty and fairness. The goal is not only for these individuals to behave impartially but also to foster a reputation of impartiality.
- Concerns about Favoritism and Ill Will: Despite earlier instructions, complaints of favoritism, bias, or ill will by officers in supervisory roles are still being received. These issues arise not only in dealing with subordinates but also in interactions with the public.
- Importance of Impartiality: The OM stresses that a Government servant must not show undue favoritism or ill will in their official dealings. If any Government servant misuses their position or aids in illegal or improper actions, they risk facing disciplinary action for violating Rule 3 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
- Dissemination of the OM: The Ministry of Finance and other relevant departments are requested to circulate this OM to all Government servants under their control, ensuring strict adherence to the Conduct Rules by all concerned.
Implications:
For government employees, this OM serves as a clear reminder that their conduct must be above reproach. The emphasis on impartiality and fairness underscores the ethical responsibilities attached to public service. Failure to adhere to these standards could result in disciplinary action, sending a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Applying Google’s Quality Guidelines to this OM:
If we were to apply Google’s quality assessment mindset to this Office Memorandum, here’s how it might stack up:
- Trustworthiness: The OM is an official document from the Government of India, making it highly reliable and authoritative.
- Expertise: The OM is written by the Department of Personnel & Training, an authority on government conduct rules.
- Originality: While reiterating older instructions, it addresses ongoing issues, adding contemporary relevance.
- Value: This OM provides clear guidance and reinforces existing rules, ensuring government servants maintain high ethical standards.
- Care and Attention: Given its official nature, this memorandum is crafted with careful attention to detail.
Would this be the sort of page to bookmark or share with others? For anyone involved in public administration, absolutely.
