Clarification on Presence of SAS Agents in Post Office Public Hall
The Department of Posts receives frequent queries from field units and stakeholders regarding the permissibility of SAS agents to remain inside post office premises, particularly the public hall area, during working hours. This clarification is issued for uniformity in interpretation based on provisions in the CBS Manual and departmental instructions.
1. Entry of SAS Agents into Public Hall
As per provisions laid down in the Core Banking Solution (CBS) Manual, SAS (Standardised Agency System) agents are allowed to enter the post office public hall during the hours designated for their business transactions.
This practice facilitates:
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Timely acceptance of investment-related forms or deposits,
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Public convenience in coordination with agents,
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Efficient transaction processing under the agency system.
2. Allotted Business Hours for Agents
It is important to distinguish between general post office business hours and specific hours allocated for agents.
As per departmental instructions:
“A separate business hour for acceptance of business from agents during the business hours of the post office shall be fixed by the competent authority according to local convenience.”
This means:
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The Divisional Head or Postmaster may designate a specific window of time within the general business hours exclusively for agent-related transactions.
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This decision may vary by location and workload, ensuring that agent activity does not disrupt regular customer services.
3. Seating and Working Space for Agents
While the agents may enter and transact within the public hall, there is no provision in the rules for allotment of permanent seating space or workstation for agents inside the post office.
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Agents may carry out their paperwork while in queue or at designated agent counters.
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Extended stays inside the office beyond their transaction period are not encouraged, unless specific approvals are provided by the postmaster in charge for operational reasons.
4. Conduct and Decorum
Agents must adhere to:
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Public decorum,
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Entry restrictions in non-public areas,
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Rules under the Post Office Savings Schemes and agency conduct guidelines.
Any violation of these norms can result in cancellation of agent license as per agency rules.
5. Summary of Provisions
| Provision | Rule Position |
|---|---|
| Entry into public hall | Permitted during designated hours for agent business |
| Seating arrangements | Not guaranteed; agents must conduct business at agent counter |
| Timing | Fixed by competent authority within general business hours |
| Rule Source | CBS Manual & Local Administrative Instructions |
The Department appreciates the essential role played by SAS agents in extending postal savings schemes to the public. While facilitating their business, it is equally important to maintain operational discipline and public convenience inside post offices. Hence, entry is allowed, but within the structured business hour policy set by local administration.