Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the implementation of a new accountability framework to ensure timely pension payments to retired government employees. The framework includes penalties for officials causing delays in pension processing. Sarma emphasized the importance of respecting and dignifying retired employees for their contributions to Assam’s progress.
The Administrative Reforms, Training, Pension, and Public Grievances Department issued a notification introducing penalty provisions for delays in pension processing. Penalties will be levied on Heads of Offices for undue delays in pension cases, as per government timelines and procedures. A monthly list of delayed pension cases will be generated and shared for monitoring and action by relevant authorities.
The notification stipulates a financial penalty of Rs 250 per day on officials responsible for delays in pension processing, with a maximum cap of Rs 5,000. The recovery amount will be deducted directly from the salaries of the concerned officials through the FinAssam portal. Drawing and Disbursing Officers are tasked with ensuring the implementation of recovery provisions and reporting details to the concerned department.
The new mechanism aims to enhance administrative efficiency, reinforce accountability in government offices, and ensure pensioners receive their dues promptly. The notification is effective immediately, signaling a commitment to streamline pension disbursal processes.
