Non-Disclosure of Complainant Identity Under PIDPI Guidelines
The Department of Posts has issued new instructions regarding the non-disclosure of the identity of complainants under the Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informer (PIDPI) framework vide memo no No. 31-01/2021-PO dated 03 MAR 2021. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to clarify the new guidelines.
1. What is the purpose of these new instructions?
The instructions aim to protect the identity of individuals submitting complaints under PIDPI by allowing them to send their complaints without mentioning their name and address on the envelope.
2. Who issued these instructions?
These instructions have been issued following a request from the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and have been approved by the competent authority.
3. What changes have been made regarding PIDPI complaints sent through post?
The following changes have been implemented:
- Letters marked as “PIDPI Complaint” or “Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informer” can be accepted for posting without requiring the sender’s name, address, mobile number, or email ID.
- These articles can be sent via Registered Post and Speed Post services.
4. To whom can such PIDPI complaints be addressed?
These complaints can be addressed to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) of respective departments.
5. Are these instructions applicable to all post offices?
Yes, these instructions are applicable to all post offices, including:
- CSI Post Offices
- Non-CSI Post Offices (Meghdoot Millennium Software-based Post Offices)
6. Who is responsible for implementing these instructions in post offices?
The following officials must ensure strict compliance with these instructions:
- Postmasters, Assistant Postmasters, Supervisors
- Postal Assistants (PAs), Branch Postmasters (BPMs), and Assistant Branch Postmasters (ABPMs)
7. What should counter staff do when handling such complaints?
- Counter PAs, BPMs, and ABPMs must not insist on the sender’s name and address when accepting articles marked as “PIDPI Complaint” or “Public Interest Disclosure”.
- They must ensure these articles are accepted for posting without any issue.
8. Are these instructions mandatory?
Yes, these instructions must be strictly followed across all post offices without exception.
These guidelines help safeguard the identity of whistleblowers and ensure complaints under PIDPI are handled confidentially. Postal staff must ensure smooth compliance with these instructions to maintain transparency and public trust.
