The Uttarakhand government has tightened rules for its employees under the State Government Employees Conduct Rules, 2022, making it mandatory for them to inform their department heads before making significant purchases or buying property.
According to a recent directive issued by Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, all employees must notify their reporting officer or department head before:
- Purchasing movable assets such as a TV, refrigerator, or air conditioner worth more than ₹5,000 or one month’s salary (whichever is less).
- Buying immovable property like land in their own name or in the name of a family member.
The circular has been sent to all Principal Secretaries, Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, Department Heads, and District Magistrates, with instructions to ensure strict compliance with the rules.
The rules further mandate that:
- Every employee must declare details of their immovable property at the time of appointment and subsequently every five years.
- Officers can demand full disclosure of both movable and immovable assets at any time.
- Employees must explain how the property was acquired, ensuring transparency in personal financial conduct.
The directive clearly states that no employee is permitted to make such purchases without prior notification to the competent authority. Officials have been asked to ensure strict enforcement of these provisions.
