Even after appointment of 139+810 ASOs for the State Secretariat by the State Government in 2016, over 700 posts are still lying vacant in various departments. Many ASOs left this job to join higher salary jobs. The shortage of the officers slows down the speed of development process in the State.
In addition, 237 ASO posts got abolished after Cadre restructuring in 2019. This step may have brought happiness among seniors of OSS Cadre as they have availed promotion last month. But it's direct effect is being realized upon present ASOs.
After promotion of Desk Officers, maximum sections are being managed by one or two ASOs and SOs. In other hand there is no sufficient chambers for these promoted Under Secretaries for which they are sitting in their previous sections.
By the way, this problem will be solved somehow after joining of new 500 ASOs recruited this year. But their appointment process is being delayed even after completion of their Medical Fitness Test during 22-29 June.
If we consider the sanctioned strength of ASOs, it is now 1510. Out of this, presently there are around 900 ASOs working at the State Secretariat. Recently, 500 ASOs have been recommended for various departments. However, the question has been raised whether the candidates, who are already working on high salary in private or government sectors, will join the new job as the ASO or not.
While 80-90 ASOs are required for a major department, only 8-20 ASOs are working at a department at present condition. Amid various schemes launched by both Centre and State Government, the shortage of ASOs has become a major challenge for the Administrative system.
The Government in 1996 had notified for filling up of the posts through the OPSC. Fifteen years after the notification, the OPSC in 2011 had published an advertisement for filling 811 ASO posts in the State Secretariat and for 139 posts in 2015-16 through special drive. And now 500 posts in 2018-19.
On the other hand, several cases have been filed in the Courts including SAT, High Court and Supreme Court against appointment of ASOs since 2010.
In recent recruitment for 500 posts, OPSC recommend 13 PwD candidates whereas vacancy was 20. So the merit list may be changed in future as like in 2012-13 recruitment.
If the petitioners win the case, the recently appointed ASOs will be in trouble, feel legal experts. In this connection, the candidates have started consulting their lawyers about joining of service.
Government may issue appointment order in the end of this month for smooth functioning of Government.
Government may issue appointment order in the end of this month for smooth functioning of Government.
