In a stern directive issued today, the Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Department has warned administrative officers against making unauthorised visits to the Lok Seva Bhawan and other state headquarters offices.
The circular, signed by Additional Secretary Prajnadhara Mishra, highlights growing concerns over officers from districts frequently absconding from their posts without prior approval to handle personal matters during official hours.
The letter, addressed to all Collectors and Revenue Divisional Commissioners (RDCs), points out that such practices are disrupting public services and depriving citizens of timely revenue-related assistance. “This is a matter of serious concern as such officers remain absent from their headquarters/stations without authorisation and headquarters leaving permission from the Competent Authority,” the directive states. It further notes that these officers are often found dealing with personal issues, leading to inefficiencies in government operations.
Mishra emphasised the need for discipline, urging district heads to issue immediate warnings to errant officers under their control. “In case any such instance is noticed in future, the Government will take it very seriously and necessary disciplinary action as deemed proper shall be initiated against such officers,” the letter warns. The move is seen as an effort to enforce accountability and ensure that field officers prioritise their duties over unsanctioned trips to the capital.
Collectors and RDCs have been instructed to disseminate the warning to all subordinate officers, with strict compliance expected.
The government hopes this step will curb absenteeism and enhance public service delivery, particularly in revenue administration, which handles critical functions like land records, disaster management, and citizen grievances.
