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INDIAN RAILWAYS PROMOTEE OFFICERS’ FEDERATION
RAMAN KUMAR SHARMA Secretary General
Dated : December 23rd, 2013
Sub : Minutes of the Annual General Body Meeting held on 19th & 20th December, 2013 at Jaipur (N.W.Rly).
Shri Deepak Shelly, President/IRPOF presided over the meeting and he informed the House about the demise of Shri S.K. Khannaji, Founder member
of the Federation. He further mentioned the contribution of Shri Khannaji in bringing up the Federation during the days of scarcity. The hard work, sincerity and dedication of Shri Khannaji will be remembered by the House for
immorial time. He requested the House to observe two minutes silence in his honour.
After observing silence, President/IRPOF requested Genl. Secy/NWRPOA Shri P. Sen to give his welcome address.
Shri P. Sen, Genl. Secy/NWRPOA thanked the Federation for giving him an opportunity for hosting AGM at Jaipur and he welcomed all the
delegates who have come from different parts of India in this AGM and assured them comfortable stay and providing good hospitality for the AGM.
President/NWRPOA Shri D.R. Sharma requested the distinguished guests to light the candle so that AGM could be started formally. Lightening of candle was done by Smt and Shri J.P. Singh, ex. President/IRPOF and
President/ECRPOA, followed by him Shri Jitendra Singh, ex. Secy. Genl/IRPOF, Shri Deepak Shelly, President/IRPOF, Shri Raman Kumar Sharma, Secy. Genl/IRPOF and President/NWRPOA Shri D.R. Sharma also
lighted the candle.
President/IRPOF Shri Deepak Shelly, informed the House that despite our best efforts and cooperation from Railway Board we are still not able to achieve the desired results. The DPCs papers of Traffic departments were
completed in all respect with full cooperation from all of you but UPSC declined to accept them under single window system when Railway Board submitted these papers in December, 2013. UPSC is seeking clarification regarding
convening of DPCs involving reservation for promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ from DOP&T and they are of the opinion that till a decision is
received further DPC cannot be convened. Commission has also decided to return DPC proposals for promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ . The situation in the given circumstances is very critical because DPC of Stores, Traffic, S&T,
Elect., Mechanical and Civil for Vacancy Year 2012-13 & 2013-14 is still pending. Already DPC for these two vacancy years has been delayed as per
DOP&T calendar and further uncertainty to convene the DPC by UPSC is a set back and will adversely affect the seniority of Group’B’ officers on induction to
Group’A’ which will jeopardize the promotional prospects to JAG and SAG. The House needs to seriously deliberate on the issue and we should not sit back and wait for destiny to decide our future.
He emphasized that to strengthen the Federation all the affiliated
associations should strengthen themselves and hold regular meetings in their
units and also interact with members intimating them the latest developments
and functioning regarding issues going on related to promotee officers.
Information should be shared at all levels to remove doubts among the
members who are of the opinion that in absence of information the
associations and Federation are not functioning properly and looking after their
interest. We should maintain discipline and also clear all the outstanding
dues because finances are always required to run the Federation smoothly.
He appreciated the arrangements made by NWRPOA and complimented the
team for good arrangements. He requested all the delegates to be brief in their
speeches, adhere to their time limit and not repeat the issues which have been
taken up by the previous speakers. He also requested that raising an issue is a
good thing but at the same time we should also come forward with the views
and suggestions how to resolve the issue so that the suggestions given could be
deliberated and house may arrive at a conclusion and decide the approach to
be adopted for resolving the matter.
He invited Secretary General/IRPOF to place his report before the House.
Shri Raman Kumar Sharma, Secy. General/IRPOF - detailed report was
placed before the House. He informed that to maintain the continuity of the
meeting a separate action taken report on the minutes of the Madurai ECM is
also annexed for perusal of the House. As decided in the last ECM all the Org.
Secy of the Federation were requested to submit their report incorporating the
activities of zonal Association but report from only four Org. Secy were received
which is also annexed with the Secy. Genl Report. We hope that in the next
meeting all the Org. Secys will submit a brief account or the activities done
during the intervening period of the two meetings which will give more indepth
information of the activities going on at the unit level. There is no point in
reading the entire report because it is already available with all of you, I would
like to mention briefly the issues of great concern.
1. The status of DPC s has been given in detail but due to the recent
situation which has emerged with UPSC the DPCs are held up and in this
regard we had contacted the officials in UPSC who are insisting for a
clarification from DOP&T for convening DPCs involving reservation in
promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’. The DPCs papers of Traffic department
were not accepted by the UPSC and they have returned it without any
endorsement. Railway Board was approached to negotiate and impress upon
UPSC to accept the papers and do the ground work for other deparptments till
clarification from DOP&T is received. We will insist Railway Board to write a
letter to UPSC to resolve the impasse. DPCs status of Misc. cadre is also
enclosed.
2. Misc. Categories - We would like to assure that Federation is taking up the
issues related to Misc. categories at all level and detailed single agenda has
been submitted by the Federation to Railway Board for the next Formal
Meeting., The problems of Misc. cadre are different from one cadre to the
another, hence, they have to be taken up in that perspective and cannot be
deliberated as a single item as it is done for the organized services. Recently,
promotion of three JAG officers of EDP cadre were issued by Railway Board.
Genl. Secretaries are requested to submit seniority list of all the officers of Misc
cadre as on 1.1.2014 along with seniority list of organised services so that the
seniority list of Misc. officers could also be prepared and uploaded on the web
site. We should also involve officers of Misc cadre in our organizational
meetings so that they have the feeling of involvement and aware of the actions
taken by the Associations and Federation with regard to their issues.
3. COURT CASES - Direct IRSEE officers of 2006 batch have filed Court
cases in CAT/LKO and CAT/Hyderabad challenging the DOITS of IRSEE
officers inducted to Group’A’ in vacancy year 2010-11 & 2011-12. IRPOF has
filed impleadment application in CAT/LKO which was listed in the month of
December, 2013 and the next date fixed is 9.1.2014. As regards case filed in
CAT/Hyderabad it is mentioned that SCR Railway should contest the case
being a local unit there and necessary input for filing counter and rules on the
subject along with other documents required to be filed with the reply will be
provided by the Federation. Federation will be requiring extra funds to contest
these cases and any other similar type of cases which are filed challenging the
basic issues of promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ which have effect on all
the services. We should come forward and support financially so that the
concerned unit which is contesting the case do not feel helpless on financial
grounds. Once again all the General Secretaries are requested to be cautious
and vigilant about the cases being filed by Direct officers challenging the rules
related to Group’A’ Induction. As and when any such case comes to their
notice they should inform to the Federation and all effective measures should
be taken to whemently contest them.
The other issues also need to be deliberated and I request all the
delegates to come forward with their valuable comments and suggestions so
that Federation should be able to move ahead as decided by the House.
Shri Amesh Kumar, Secy. Finance/IRPOF -He presented the audited
Receipt and Payment accounts of the Federation for the period 1.1.2012 to
31.12.2012 and also gave details of outstanding dues of affiliated associations
as on 17.12.2013. He congratulated CRPOA, ECoRPOA, NRPOA, NCRPOA,
NWRPOA, SRPOA, SCRPOA, SERPOA, SECRPOA, WRPOA, DLWPOA, DMWPOA
and ICFPOA for clearing all their dues upto 31.12.2013 and no outstanding
amount is pending against them. He requested all the General Secretaries to
come forward and clear their outstanding shown against them and in case they
have any doubt, reconciliation of the outstanding amount can be done
separately in the AGM as all the records are available with him. He informed
the House that due to constraint of funds we could not issue PROP and if we
are able to manage sufficient funds by clearance of outstanding dues then we
can think of issuing Annual issue of PROP for year 2013. Healthy financial
status gives a moral boost to our Federation to go ahead and think of
organizing special meeting, Seminar, Dharna etc. as situation warrants. He
thanked NWRPOA for their good arrangements and informed the House that
contribution of Rs.1,00,000/- as promised has been given to NWRPOA today
for making arrangements for the meeting. He assured the House that the
commitment of the Federation as agreed upon will be honoured and all efforts
should be made that the contribution of Federation of ECM/AGM is credited
atleast one week in advance to the unit which is hosting the meeting. Any
clarification if required can be sought as regards statement of Receipt and
Expenditure, outstanding dues and balance sheet placed before the House is
concerned.
Shri S.S. Parashar, Convener, Constitution Review Committee - he
informed the House that he was nominated as Convener of the Constitution
Review Committee along with five members. President/IRPOF Shri Deepak
Shelly, was Chairman of the committee. All the General Secretaries, Office
bearers of the Federation and members were requested to submit their
proposal to be incorporated for amendment of the constitution of IRPOF. The
committee has received proposals from various units and all were compiled and
placed before the committee for consideration. After considering all the
proposals the committee had shortlisted under noted amendments
unanimously for placing before the House for consideration and taking decision
as deemed fit by the House. He clarified that the recommendations of the
Constitution review committee are not binding and it is for the House to accept,
modify or reject the proposal of the committee as any amendments to the
constitution of the Federation are to be passed by the AGM as per the
provisions contained in the Constitution. The proposed amendments are as
under :
1 Since Zonal Railway status has been accorded to RDSO and Metro
hence, Federation should consider and extend all facilities at par to
RDSO and Metro in Federation activities and treat them as Zonal
Railways.
2. Post of Adviser/Advisers/Patron/Consultant or any other capacity may
be included in the Constitution and rules regarding its tenure
methodology to fill them along with their duties and responsibilities to be
decided by the House. The incumbent will not be part of the Executive
Body.
President/IRPOF requested the delegates to come and give their views
and suggestions on Secy. General report, Secy. Finance/IRPOF report and
report submitted by Constitution Review Committee. He again reiterated that
since time is short hence, the speakers are requested to be brief and precise
while giving their views and the issues already raised and discussed should not
be repeated again and again. To start with the discussion he invited :
SHRI D.N. VERMA, GENL. SECY/ERPOA - he thanked NWRPOA for making
excellent and elaborate arrangements for the AGM. He mentioned that once
minutes to minutes programme of the meeting is circulated to all the delegates
then there should not be any eventuality for deviating from it. The issue of
Constitution amendments was listed for discussion on second day i.e.
20.12.2013 as per the programme. What was the necessity to prepone it for
today. He further mentioned that the meetings are held only thrice in a year
and the delegates attending the meetings are more interested in visiting
historical places and going for sightseeing after marking their attendance
leaving the meeting which is not a healthy pattern. All the delegates should be
present in the House not with the intention to give their speech and go away
but should also listen to the views of other participants. The Constitution
review committee was formed in New Delhi in March, 2013 and was circulated
to all the members by the Federation Through the website of IRPOF we came
to know that the Constitution review committee which was constituted in the
ECM/Delhi has been dissolved and no reasons were mentioned on the website.
Constitution amendment is a very important and serious issue and it should
not happen frequently. I feel no reason for the dissolution of the committee
formed by the ECM at New Delhi and formation of new Constitution review
committee superseding the earlier one. The constitution amendments passed
in year 2010 were arbitrary and autocratic in nature and they should be
rescinded and original constitution prior to the 2010 amendments should be
brought in force. Any amendment to the constitution require a proposal to be
submitted 45 days in advance as per provisions of IRPOF constitution and a
thorough discussion should be held clause by clause for the proposed
amendments. Technically the proposals given today in the meeting by the
Convener of the constitution review committee cannot be taken up for
discussion as they do not comply with the mandatory provision of advance
notice of 45 days.
He sought an explanation from the House why DPC for promotion from
Group’B’ to Group’A’ are not held annually and separately for each vacancy
year because clubbing of DPC for two years, which has become a trend is
putting promotee officers at loss. Previously DPCs for year 2010-11 and 2011-
12 were held on one day thus DOITS of both the panel years were fixed on
same day for the officers empanelled for both the years. Now the process of
DPC again for two years i.e. 2012-13 & 2013-14 is under process and again the
DOITS of both the years will be the same. The officers empanelled for first year
in the combined DPC s are at loss as regards DOITS is concerned and their
future advancement is concerned. Federation should look into this and not get
trapped by the Railway Board policy which has adverse impact on the
promotional prospects of our promotee members. For any Federation or
organisation to function in a democratic and transparent way, it is the first and
foremost duty to assign duties and responsibilities to various office bearers.
Today only it is Secy. General of the Federation who is looked upon on all the
issues and other office bearers of the Exe. Body i.e. Organising secretaries,
Secretaries are not aware about their duties and responsibilities and they are
not accountable to the House for the Federation activities. For the betterment
of the Federation, effective and smooth functioning it is necessary to assign
responsibilities to all the office bearers who should give their brief and explain
to the House regarding those activities. The problem of stagnation is getting
alarming with each passing day and the Federation has failed to tackle the
issue of stagnation. It seems now we are complacent and accepting the things
as they are going on. We should rise above the occasion and take all necessary
steps to minimize the increasing trend of stagnation in all the services with
special reference to Civil, Accounts and Personnel. The outstanding dues
shown against ERPOA are not correct as in the past in many meetings
it has been clarified that only Affiliation fee and AGM contribution are the
legitimate dues which can be paid as per constitution of IRPOF. Outstanding
dues shown against PROP, advertisements and special levy for seminar and
meetings are superfluous and it is sort of extortion tactics of the Federation to
collect funds for which ERPOA has always opposed and denied to pay. Secy.
Finance is requested to reconcile the payments made by ERPOA and dues
against affiliation fee and AGM subscription. If any outstanding is due on
these accounts that should be reflected and unnecessarily showing the
outstanding is not good for the system.
SHRI SHASHI RANJAN, GENL. SECY/ECRPOA - he congratulated NWRPOA
for making nice arrangements for the meeting. He mentioned that the AGM
has all the powers to discuss and decide the issue and this is the apex body of
the Federation. He strongly condemned the views expressed by Shri D.N.
Verma that asking for special donation/levy by the Federation is equivalent to
extortion of money and criminal act. He questioned the House if Federation
will not ask for the funds from the Affiliated associations from where the funds
are to come. Whatever special donation has been asked by the Federation is
always discussed and decided by majority. Once a decision has been taken
then there is no scope of backing what has been decided. It hardly matters
whether few Genl. Secretaries do not accept the proposal but the majority
decision will prevail and shall be binding on all the affiliated associations.
Further he explained that conducting DPCs for two years is beneficial for
promotee officers and will also help in curbing delay in DPCs. Once the DPCs
start finalizing as per DOP&T schedule then this practice will automatically
cease. Speaking on constitution amendments he mentioned that the
constitutional provisions as laid down should be followed. It is for the House to
consider the proposal, postpone it for next meeting or reject the proposals. The
House is fully authorized to take any decision as regards the amendments to
the constitution is concerned. He expressed satisfaction over the improving
financial status of the Federation and requested all the Genl. Secretaries to
clear their outstanding dues and abide by the decisions taken by the House.
He was of the opinion that expenditure should be controlled and if any Genl.
Secretary has a doubt regarding misuse of money he is free to check the
account of the Federation and seek clarification from Secy. Finance within the
provisions framed in the constitution. Simply speaking and levelling frivolous
allegations are not good. He further mentioned that the recommendations of
the Constitution review committee are of recommendatory nature and it is for
the House to discuss and modify as deemed fit hence, there is no point to
question the recommendations submitted by the committee as they are placed
before the House for consideration. He was of the opinion that time should be
utilized for constructive decisions as the delegates have come from far off
places to attend the meeting and they have the responsibility to go back and
explain to the members what transpired in the AGM. We should devote our
time keeping this in view and we hope that further discussions will be in
positive direction without leveling any allegations or accusing the office
bearers.
SHRI R.R. POTDAR, ORG. SECY/IRPOF - He welcomed all the delegates and
thanked NWRPOA for warm hospitality. He informed the House that their unit
has discussed the issue of Adviser and they are of the opinion that constitution
should be amended accordingly and services of retired officers should be
utilized keeping in view their experience and capability. The expenditure
incurred by Federation need not be discussed and we should have faith in our
leadership that they will utilize the funds with due diligence and this issue
should be left to Secy. Genl of the Federation and similarly Genl. Secretaries of
the affiliated Associations. As regards the Card passes of the Federation is
concerned he mentioned that apex leadership should consider best utilization
and distribution of Card Passes in the interest of the Federation.
SHRI M.A. HAQUE, GENL. SECY/ECORPOA - he congratulated NWRPOA for
excellent arrangements for the AGM. He appreciated the way things were
organized for the meeting and was of the opinion that the units which will be
hosting ECM/AGM in the days to come will have to meet with the standards
maintained by the previous unit. Good arrangements reflects how strong host
association is and also gives immense pleasure to the delegates who come from
different railways for the meeting. He informed the House that after going back
from the meeting he will be organizing a meeting of ECORPOA to discuss the
issues likely to be considered for inclusion in the memorandum to be
submitted to VII CPC by the Federation. He gave the suggestions that for the
last one year officers of Misc categories are raising their issues and they want
that their demands should be taken up by Federation. He advised that a
special meeting should be convened by the Federation inviting delegates from
the Misc. cadre along with Genl. Secy so that Federation should understand
their problems and present in an effective manner to Railway Board and also
before VII CPC. He expressed his concern that DPCs are not being convened by
UPSC on reservation issue and this will have adverse impact on our members.
He clarified that Federation should not go either for reservation of SC/ST in
promotion or against it but it should take necessary steps that DPCs are
conducted as per policy laid down by the Government of India. Whatever may
be circumstances promotions should continue and if the problem is not
resolved by negotiation then Federation should think of going for agitation as it
concerns the career prospects of our members. We may think of wearing Black
badges or organizing a Dharna at Zonal headquarters or at New Delhi as
decided by the House. He further mentioned that printing of PROP should not
be discontinued and if required funds be procured through Affiliated
associations. Other issues of common interest like inclusion of parents as
dependent in privilege passes or grant of MACP as per channel of promotion
and not as per hierarchy of grade should also be taken up by the Federation.
He assured the House that ECORPOA will stand up to any call given by the
Federation and informed the House that there are no outstanding dues against
ECORPOA. ECORPOA offers to host AGM of IRPOF for the year 2014 in
November/December, 2014 if given to them.
SHRI Y.P. MITTAL, GENL. SECY/NRPOA - he appreciated the arrangements
made for the meeting and the discussions going on in the meeting. He was of
the opinion that we are very much concerned about stagnation of Group’B’
officers for promotion to Group’A’ and looking towards only one aspect for
increasing the quota for induction to Group’A’ or seeking additionality of posts
is not sufficient. No doubt this will serve the purpose to tackle stagnation to
some extent but we should also look forward and regulate induction of
Group’B’ officers from Group’C’ so that we could match intake of Group’B’
officers with the induction to Group’A’. Recruitment of direct Group’A’ officers
is regulated accordingly and they have better career prospects. Many
promotee officers inducted into Group’A’ have residual service of 7-12 years
and they are likely to be considered for JAG and SG hence, Federation should
also give attention towards JAG confirmation and placement of JAG officers in
Selection Grade. He emphasized the need for involving retired members/office
bearers in the Federation activities in whatever capacity the house decides and
cautioned that lifelong association of any individual is not appreciated hence,
the process should continue by engaging retired office bearers as per
requirement of Federation. He clarified that no decision in this regard has yet
been taken by NRPOA. He highlighted the problems faced by our members due
to pending D&AR cases for long time which deprive them of their due
promotions. Federation should take up this issue forcefully with the concerned
authorities so that cases are not kept pending for years together. He
mentioned that asking for funds from the zonal associations again and again is
not a healthy practice and we should assess the situation and decide it for once
keeping in view our requirements. Funds available with the Federation should
be invested judiciously so that they may also generate regular earning. He
announced an additional contribution of Rs.5000/- to NWRPOA for making
nice arrangements for the meeting.
SHRI S.S. PARASHAR, GENL. SECY/NCRPOA - he welcomed all the
delegates and thanked NWRPOA for nice arrangements. He mentioned that it
is not necessary for the persons who comes to address to give reply to the
issues raised by the previous speaker. We are not having a debate but a very
serious discussion related to issues concerned to our members. He clarified
that as convener of the Constitution review committee only the compilation of
the proposed amendments which were unanimously agreed upon by all the
members of the committee have been placed before the house for consideration
and house should take necessary action as deemed fit. He stated few years
back in the Formal meeting it was almost agreed that Misc cadre will be
merged with organized services and a blue print was also drawn but nothing
concrete has emerged out. Federation should either raise this issue again or
formulate better career progression of the members of Misc cadre. He
appreciated the idea of holding a special meeting/seminar of officers of Misc
cadre which will help Federation in resolving their issues. Website of IRPOF is
full of information but recruitment rules neither of organized services nor of
Misc cadre are available which should be uploaded for the benefit of all
members. No Formal Meeting could be held at Apex level in year 2013 which
has deprived us from raising the issues before the Railway Board and
Federation should take necessary steps so that formal meeting is fixed at the
earliest. In case due to some genuine reasons Formal meeting is delayed then
we should atleast have informal meeting with concerned officers and discuss
our long pending agenda items which will definitely serve the purpose and the
issues will move ahead in the direction of finalization. He assured the House
that NCRPOA will support any decision taken to agitate our pending demands.
He further mentioned that it seems the Federation has accepted that issue of
Grade Pay Rs.5400/- to all officers of organised and Misc cadre will not be
accepted and thus efforts have been reduced in this regard. Nothing positive
has been heard regarding additionality of posts for Civil, Accounts and
Personnel department to minimize stagnation and the issue of ante dating of
seniority from 1st April of Vacancy year also seems to have lost somewhere. He
asked the House if non functional SAG can be given to Direct officers then why
such provision can not be made for Group’B’ who are deprived of promotional
prospects in the nitigrity of talks, rules and regulations. He also pointed out
that the issue of holding Group’B’ selection on one day for Indian Railways is
also not in discussion similarly the issue of written exam for promotion from
Group’B’ to Group’A’ has not been discussed and we should be careful so that
we may not encounter some guidelines or instructions issued by Railway Board
which are detrimental to our members. In the last he requested the House to
conduct AGM meeting in a professional way and an opportunity may be given
to all the members to give their views and suggestions and we should end up
with decision for resolving our issues.
SHRI B.G. RAMESH, GENL. SECY/RWFPOA - appreciating the arrangements
made by NWRPOA for the meeting. He thanked President/IRPOF for giving an
opportunity to speak. IRPOF should look after the interest of all the officers
irrespective of any departmental feelings or any other considerations. All the
members working in the field have an impression that Federation is looking
after their interest hence, it becomes the duty of the Federation to ensure and
safeguards promotional prospects of all the members. He mentioned that
only coming and attending the meeting will not serve the purpose and we
should devote more time to our activities at the unit level so that all the
members are involved and their views and suggestions are obtained if we want
to adopt a democratic way of functioning. He informed the House that
outstanding dues will be cleared and also mentioned that they have enrolled
new members in Benevolent fund by launching a special drive and similar
exercise should be undertaken by the Genl. Secys of other units. He further
mentioned that putting restriction on association of retired officers having
immense experience will be like locking the input from a great leader who has
been associated in Federation activities for the last many years. He
appreciated the idea of agitation but wanted to know how many members of
our association will be ready to wear black badges during the office hours and
in the chamber of their bosses. Federation should assess the situation and
take conscious decision keeping in view the ground realities and the
limitations. He assured that RWFPOA is always with Federation and ready to
support any call given for agitation.
SHRI R.P. TIWARI, GENL. SECY/RDSOPOA - he welcomed all the delegates
attending the AGM and conveyed good wishes for new year. He appreciated the
arrangements made for the meeting and also cautioned that we should fix
some limit as all the units hosting Federation meeting are going far and far
which will be a cause of concern for the units who will be hosting future
meetings. He informed the House that RDSOPOA has submitted their
proposed amendments to the Constitution review committee and RDSO has
since been declared a zonal railway, hence Federation should think of granting
the status of Zonal railway. He also raised the question once RDSO is given a
status of zonal railway in the Federation then they are entitled for the post of
Org. Secy as given to all the Zonal railways. He further mentioned that
activities of the Federation in RDSO are going on regularly and recently in last
week they had Formal meeting with DG/RDSO. In the last week of the month
we hold our monthly meeting and farewell is given to retiring members. Exe.
Committee of RDSOPOA meets every month in first week. He also questioned
that when the tenure of the Exe. Committee is three years then why officers
having less than three years of services are elected to the Executive Body when
it is known that they will not complete the tenure. In case the House decides
to elect them then there should be a provision to elect another person in the
same AGM who will hold that post on vacation. He further mentioned that
Constitution of all zonal and production units should be in consonance with
constitution of IRPOF . The necessity to submit audited accounts of the
association is illogical as all the affiliated associations are clearing their dues of
the Federation then why Federation wants to interfere in zonal
railways/Production units. He informed the House that there is no
outstanding against RDSO. Federation should approach Railway Board and
seek extension of letter in which %age of Group’B’ was circulated in 2005 and
the currency of this letter is only upto 31.12.2013. He mentioned that the
issue of sending officers on deputation to RDSO should be stopped as no
deputation is permissible from one zonal railway to another. Payment of
tenure allowance to the officers of organized services coming to RDSO is not
paid to the officers of RDSO who are promoted in RDSO itself. Since RDSO
officers have also been included in the organisied services hence, there should
be no discrimination in grant of tenure allowance to the officers or it should be
stopped for all the officers. He highlighted the issue of promotion of PPS to
Senior scale in GP 6600/- which is a genuine demand and should be taken up
by Federation as young officers working in PPS cadre gets stagnated in GP
5400 which already they had availed by way of 80% upgradation on completion
of 4 years of service. He highlighted the issue of grant of 1st AC authority to
JAG after implementation of VI CPC recommendations wherein the officers who
were eligible for 1st AC authority as per previous provisions have been deprived
of that benefit which should be looked into by the Federation. Similarly,
Federation should also approach Railway Board and the instructions for facility
of TADK to JAG officers working in RDSO should be got issued as RDSO is also
one of the zonal railways now.
SHRI SUKHJINDER SINGH, DELEGATE/RCFPOA - he thanked NWRPOA for
making excellent arrangements. Secy. General report was very informative and
almost all the aspects have been covered and the doubts were explained in
detail by the Secy. Genl which will help us to clarify the issues when we go
back to our unit. He assured the House that the outstanding dues will be
cleared within a month. The post of Adviser, should be there in the Federation
so that experienced leaders can also participate and guide us. Highlighting the
problems of RCFPOA he mentioned that in EDP cadre the recruitment rules
provide for filling up 20% JAG posts from the cadre and 80% from deputation.
Some officers of EDP cadre have organized a campaign to get the post of JAG
pertaining to deputation quota filled by the officers of EDP cadre in violation of
recruitment rules which will prove detrimental to promotional prospects of
Mech officers who are presently holding these posts. Federation should
examine the issue in light of the existing instructions and ensure that the
career prospects of Mech officers are not jeopardized.
SHRI N.K. Mondal, Delegate, METROPOA - he thanked President/IRPOF for
giving opportunity to express the views and also appreciated the arrangements
made for the comfortable stay. IRPOF website provides all the information and
members are able to access all the letters issued by the Railway Board. All
Group’B’ officers should be granted GP 5400 on promotion to Group ‘B’ as
given to Group ’B’ Accounts officers by VI CPC. The stalement of DPCs should
be resolved at the earliest otherwise we will be loosing our promotion on this
account. He asked the house that once it was decided in the ECM/Mumbai
that all outstanding dues will be written off if Metro POA makes a payment of
Rs.20500/- The agreed amount has already been paid to the Federation but
the dues have been shown outstanding against us which is not acceptable and
Secy. finance should reconcile the statement and honour the decision of AGM
Mumbai. He informed the House the Metro POA is a small unit but still we are
ready to host ECM/AGM of the Federation jointly with ER or SER if agreed by
the House.
SHRI G.P. PRABHAKAR, GENL. SECY/NERPOA - welcoming all the delegates
he mentioned that functioning of Federation as a group will solely depend upon
the support of its affiliated associations. Hence it is our duty to ensure full
support and cooperation to the Federation so that Exe. Body of the Federation
can function properly. The report submitted by the Secy. Genl/IRPOF is very
clean and transparent and all the facts have been stated without hiding them.
Such approach is appreciable and we are here to discuss the problems being
faced in resolving our issues and house should decide upon how to act further.
The outstanding dues of Rs.500/- shown by Secy. Finance/IRPOF should be
cleared as already discussed and there is no outstanding against NERPOA. He
reminded the House that already in the AGM of Federation at Gorakhpur it was
decided that no retired member/office bearer should be inducted in the
Federation and Federation should run as per the provisions existing in the
constitution. He wanted to know why the issue of grant of Productivity Linked
Bonus to officers have been dropped from the agenda when it was not finalized
in our favour. We have been discussing acute stagnation in various
departments but before we find solution we need to understand the reason
behind the stagnation and then only any solution can be expected. Officers of
Accounts department on induction to Group’A’ are transferred to other railway
whereas Group’B’ officers on promotion to Group’A’ in other departments are
posted in their parent railways. Why this discrimination is going on for
Accounts officers only and what are the reason for adopting this transfer policy
only in Accounts and not in other organised service. Federation has been
approached to get this stopped as it has caused resentment amongst the
promotee officers working in Accounts department. Highlighting the problems
of Para medical department he informed the House that only Recruitment rules
for Group’A’ induction in the cadre of Physiotherapy have been framed and for
the first time in year 2013 induction has been done to Group’A’ in
Physiotherapy department. Recruitment rules of other officers working in
Paramedical department should also be framed on similar lines.
SHRI Pradip Karmakar, Delegate, NFRPOA - he thanked NWRPOA and
expressed his concern about the state of affairs regarding Misc categories.
Though Federation has started thinking about them but still much more is to
be done in this regard. For effective working of the Federation it is necessary
that zonal railways should perform and the information as regards seniority
list, cadre position and on going activities highlighting the achievements and
problems should be furnished to IRPOF office at regular intervals so that
Federation should be in a position to analyze them and take effective steps as
required. He informed the House that the wards of Group’D’ and ‘C’ employees
gets benefit of scholarship under Staff Benefit Scheme but sons and daughters
of promotee officers are not covered in the scheme. To meet with this NFRPOA
has started a system of facilitating sons and daughters of promotee officers
who secures 60% or more marks. He highlighted the specific problem of NF
Railway wherein promotee officers booked for MDP programme had to undergo
journey of more than two days on one side. The absence of officers of more
than 4 days simply on account of journey time proves to be more costly as
compared to Air Traffic, hence, Federation should approach Railway Board and
ask for special consideration for attending MDP courses at NAIR, Vadodara by
allowing air travel facility to the participants. Work charged posts are
continuing in railways continuously for years together. They should be
converted to revenue posts so that benefit of induction to Group’A’ and other
benefits could be obtained on them. He further informed that provisions
exists for Air travel on surrender of Privilege pass from Guwahati to Kolkata
only which serves no purposes. It should be extended upto Home town of the
concerned officer because all the officers working in Guwahati/NFR do not
belong to Kolkata. Proper procedure should be adopted for amendment to the
constitution and there should be no situation where groups are formed and
sense of hateredness erupts. The best option if no consensus is formed will be
Secret ballot election. The anomalies in Pay structure due to
recommendations of VI CPC should be got rectified while submitting
memorandum to VII CPC. Demands for inclusion in the Memorandum should
be notified to the members for obtaining their views. The outstanding dues of
NFRPOA will be cleared and we assure full cooperation and support to the
Federation and it is the responsibility of the affiliated associations to
strengthen the Federation and if weakness is noticed then we are also
responsible for it because we are part of the Federation. I request all the
delegates to work for strengthening our Federation and spread the message
amongst all our members regarding achievements of the Federation and
highlight our problems which we want to be redressed by the Federation.
SHRI K.V. VARDARAJAN, GENL. SECY/SRPOA - he congratulated NWRPOA
for making good arrangements. He informed the House that the Constitution
Review committee had submitted its recommendation and it is for the House to
take any decision in the matter. Decisions taken in the previous meetings are
not open to be discussed otherwise it will be difficult for us to function. If any
review is required that should be given for inclusion in the agenda along with
logical reasons for review and if deemed fit by the Exe. Body it should be placed
for discussion before the House. Majority decision if not supported by any
affiliated association is binding on them if passed in the AGM. Secy. Genl
report is exhaustive and covers almost all the aspects which we are dealing
presently. He stressed the need for holding separate meetings on Misc cadre
as soon as possible so that they may get a platform to highlight their problems
and involve themselves in decision making. He highlighted the problems
being faced by the Zonal railways and production units in getting the Formal
Meetings fixed with GMs as the existing instructions are not clear and Railway
Board should be approached by the Federation to get the instructions
reiterated so that there is no ambiguity in interpretation of rules. The
problems of DPCs being stopped due to no clarity on issue of reservation of
SC/ST in promotions can be tackled by convincing UPSC to convene DPCs and
keep the posts allocated for SC/ST vacant till a decision is communicated by
DOP&T/Government of India. He was of the opinion that we are discussing
amendments of constitution of IRPOF for inclusion of post of Adviser/Patron
but Exe. Body of IRPOF should come forward with the view whether it is
required or not then only House should decide on the proposed amendments.
The feasibility of filing Court case for grant of GP 5400 to all Group’B’ offices on
promotion to Group’B’ should also be explored in case Federation feels that it is
not going to be resolved through negotiation. He was very critical on the
response of the House when Secy. finance mentioned that the following
railways have cleared their dues and nothing is pending and House welcomed
it with little response but when some railways came on the dias and mentioned
that they have cleared their dues today they were applauded more and there
was a heavy applaud for those railways who promised to clear their dues in
future. The House should give more acknowledgement and applauds to the
units having NIL outstanding otherwise such railways merely for getting more
applaud will keep their amount pending and promise to clear it in future.
Such situation will not help the Federation and we should acknowledge the
associations who have abided by the provision and cleared their outstanding
dues in time.
SHRI K. SRINIVAS, GENL. SECY/SECRPOA - welcoming all the delegates he
informed the House that his railway is agreed to the decision of having
Adviser/Patron in IRPOF but the decision to have an Adviser should not be
related or focused on any one person and post should be open to all office
bearers/members who have worked for the Federation and can be of some
benefit to help Federation in achieving the goals. The system of nomination of
Adviser should be transparent and wide publicity should be given so that we
may be able to have a list of willing, capable persons who fit into our parameter
to hold this post. He further mentioned that monthly meetings are held in
SECR and regular communication with our members is being done. The
anomalies of VI CPC should not be repeated in VII CPC and he highlighted the
case of ANOs who are placed in GP 4800 where Matrons in Group’C’ are placed
in GP 6600. Within the same department lesser GP to Group’B’ officers than
their subordinates is a gross irregularity and such anomaly should be taken
care of in VII CPC. Secy. Genl report is very clear and transparent and needs
no further discussion as all the issues have been explained in detail by the
Secy. General. All dues outstanding against SECRPOA have been cleared and
we are also of the opinion that separate meeting as proposed for Misc
categories should be held by the Federation and we should also involve them to
understand their problems. In the Federation duties should be assigned to
different office bearers so that the zonal railways associations are aware whom
to approach for specific problem and information. It is not possible for one
person i.e. Secy. Genl to cater to all the queries of various types coming from
Indian Railways besides normal functioning of the Federation. Allocation of
duties and sharing of responsibilities in Exe. Body of IRPOF will also lead to
accountability of office bearers who are at present not answerable to the zonal
associations or House on any issue. He informed the House that recently in
his railway there was an RTI application seeking information of AC window
provided to the officers and in response to the application administration
decided to remove all ACs from the chambers of promotee officers working in
Group’B’/Senior scale adhoc citing the reason that they are not entitled for ACs
as per extent instructions. The air coolers provided are not effective as
ventilation is not proper and weather is humid. The working conditions and
minimum basic facilities in office chambers of all officers should be reviewed
and once we talk of corporate nature of working in railways as regards the
output is concerned then why similar facilities are denied to us. In the last he
thanked NWRPOA for warm hospitality provided by them.
SHRI S. CHANDRASEKHAR, GENL. SECY/SWRPOA - he appreciated the
arrangements made by NWRPOA for the meeting and congratulated all the
speakers for lively discussion. He mentioned that ECM & AGMs provide us an
opportunity for introspection and analyse our strength and weaknesses so that
corrective measures could be taken for future and we can perform better to
achieve our targets. There should be a continuity from where we left in the last
meeting to the next meeting then only a systematic functioning of the
Federation can be ensured. He appreciated the Secy. Genl report wherein
action taken report for the last meeting has been annexed to his report which
gives an opportunity to access where we stand. It is obviously known to us
that policy issues take quite long time to get resolved but we should not be
complacent in raising those issues as they are time consuming. He
appreciated the efforts of Federation in getting IRPS and IRAS panel and DOITS
issued for Vacancy year 2012-13 and 2013-14 and desired that Federation
should take possible steps and expedite convening of DPCs of remaining
departments which has been stopped by UPSC for want of clarification on
reservation from DOP&T. He wanted to know what was the impact of the
memorandum submitted to Hon’ble Minster and CRB by the zonal associations
in compliance to the decision taken in the ECM Madurai. Secy. Genl report
should inform the House regarding the impact of the memorandum and action
taken thereon and if there is no response then we should decide further how
the agitation is to be planned for future. He raised the issue of granting parity
to Raj Bhasha Adhikari at par with other Ministries as per the
recommendations of VI CPC and similarly the parity should be granted to PS
Cadre as has been done for other Ministries. The recommendations of VI CPC
are not implemented in field unit of Indian Railways whereas they have been
implemented in other Ministries. Why this discrimination is going on and
Federation should tackle this issue with full force. The benefits of 80%
upgradation is related to on roll strength of Group’B’ officers which is not
serving the purpose because panels of Accounts officers are not being formed
in many railways as the staff working in feeder cadre is not interested to come
into Group’B’. The supervisor cadre which is the feeding cadre for Accounts
officers Group’B’ are not being filled and this has resulted into non formation of
Group ‘B’ panels in Accounts Departments and thus calculation of lesser posts
for 80% upgradation. SWRPOA is facing this problem and request Federation
to find a solution to this. Either railway should adopt a policy of Direct
recruitment through RRB in Supervisor cadre of Accounts or some other
methodology should be worked out to overcome this crisis. PROP should be
issued by the Federation as it is convenient to carry by the members. As a
member of the Constitution review committee he informed the House that the
unanimous recommendations of the committee have already been placed before
you by the convener of the committee and the House may decide on the
proposed amendments as desired. He thanked President for conducting
meeting in a well disciplined manner and giving an opportunity to express his
views.
SHRI OM BAJAJ, PRESIDENT/WRPOA - he thanked NWRPOA for the good
arrangements and expressed satisfaction over functioning of the Federation.
He mentioned that Federation is raising issues of General concern for the
benefit of Group’B’ officers and is going on right path and we should support
the Federation but at the same time also pointed out what is more required to
be done for the betterment of our members. Delay in DPCs is one of the major
concern and we often find that delay is mainly attributed to collection of
APARs. Federation should ask the Railway Board to stop filling of APAR form
and introduce a system online where all officers should be asked to fill their
APARs online which should be forwarded to the reporting officer directly who
should further forward it accepting and reviewing officer. All the process
should be online and the status thereof should be visible to the officers
concerned and once the APAR is completed it should be uploaded online and it
should be perused by the concerned officer and he may make any
representation if required online to the concerned officer. Online process of
filling up of APAR will save paper work and also time and Railway Board should
down load the required APAR itself instead of collecting it from zonal railways
for DPCs. Such procedural changes in the system are required if we are
thinking of expeditious action. Similarly all D&A/Vig. Cases of all the officers
including Group’B’ should be available on railway website indicating status
which will reflect the delay caused and can be effectively monitored by the
concerned officer. Long pending D&A/Vig cases have very bad impact on the
career of officers. The cases should be finalized more or less within the
stipulated time provided in the rules. He informed the House that his railway
is agreed for having a post of Adviser/Patron in the Federation but he further
mentioned that any amendments to the constitution of the Federation should
be done keeping the interest of IRPOF in view and it should not be based on
individual liking and preferences. Amendments made to the constitution are
always open for review subject to adopting procedures mentioned in the
constitution if at any time it is felt that the amendments are not working in the
interest of the Federation. He announced an additional contribution of
Rs.5000/- to NWRPOA for making nice arrangements for the meeting.
SHRI A.K. BARSIYAN, GENL. SECY/WCRPOA - he appreciated the
arrangements and mentioned that the arrangements made by NWRPOA are the
best arrangements in the meeting which he has attended. The Secy. Genl
report is very informative and explanatory in nature. The suggestions given for
filing online APARs and online record of D&AR/VIG cases is very good
suggestion and all the members can have access to the pending cases
otherwise in the present scenario an officer come to know about the case
pending against him only when his promotion is withheld. Procedural
changes are always required to overcome existing problems and online APAR
etc will definitely help in curbing delay in DPCs. Formal meetings have not
been provided to WCR by the General Manager despite regular chasing.
Federation should get the instructions reiterated from the Railway Board and
all the General Managers should be instructed to hold Formal meetings so that
local issues could be discussed and decided at zonal level. He also desired that
the status of JAG confirmation of 2002 batch of Civil Engg should be intimated
and similarly for other departments JAG and SG status should be incorporated
in the report as many members are eligible and awaiting their promotion who
are also keen to have information in this regard. He asked the House that we
are discussing to have a post of Adviser but till now there is no clarity as to
what will be the capacity of the Adviser in the Federation what facilities will be
given to him, what will be the duties and functions of the Adviser and the level
of his intervention in Federation working should clearly be spelt out before we
arrive at any conclusion. He mentioned that when Chairman, Railway Board
was at Bhopal and the Association met him and he had announced creation of
three JAG posts but three months have passed and nothing have been heard
on this account. Federation should ascertain the present status in this regard.
SHRI S.S. PARASHAR, GENL. SECY/NCRPOA - he welcomed all the
delegates present in the meeting and mentioned that he will be highlighting
only new issues which have not yet been taken. The DPC of Civil department
for induction to Group’A’ is always held in the last for the reasons best known
to the Railway Board. Federation should insist upon and plan the things in
such a fashion that officers of Civil engg are not always at the receiving end as
far as the delay in DPC is concerned. LAPTOP have been provided to all officers
to make effective use of this gadget. Railway Board should be approached to
provide Dongle for internet connectivity with limited usage to all officers as this
will also help in maintaining connectivity when the officers are out of
headquarters on duty. He informed the House that NCR administration has
entered into contract with Ginger hotel in New Delhi for officers Rest House
and similar arrangements can be made by other railways also to meet with the
problem of accommodation when they come to New Delhi. The detail papers
related to this, if required by any railway can be accessed from NCR. In the
last he requested that Federation should keep into consideration the extreme
weather conditions prevailing in December/January and not to fix any such
meting as it is very difficult to make arrangements due to cold weather and late
running of trains due to foggy season. This period should be avoided as it is
very difficult to get reservation due to year end celebrations and winter
vacations.
SHRI B.B. KALRA, DELEGATE/COREPOA - he thanked NWRPOA for good
arrangements. The report placed by Secy. Genl is complete in all respect. He
mentioned that already all the issues have been taken by previous speakers
hence he would like to mention that the outstanding dues shown against his
unit will be cleared within a month. He requested the Federation to reconsider
and include the agenda for merger of Misc. categories into organised services
as it will help and provide better promotional prospects to the officers working
in Misc cadre.
SHRI ASHOK KUMAR, ORG. SECY/IRPOF - congratulated NWRPOA for
conducting AGM in outstanding way. He mentioned that the activities of the
Association are going on well in his unit and no issue related to promotee
officers is pending finalization in DLW. Senior Scale promotions are being
given to officers almost on an average completion of four and a half year in
Group’B’. He informed the House that one Store officer who was due
retirement was promoted to JAG against leave vacancy and administration of
DLW had also responded positively to the request made by the Association.
Enrolment of new members to Benevolent Fund is a continuous process and
we should put all our efforts to increase the membership in year 2014 with the
co-operation of all the associations. More than 300 members were enrolled in
year 2013. The expectation of our members are high and to meet them we
should work unitedly to achieve our goals otherwise we will fail to deliver
justice to our members. As regards constitution amendments he mentioned
that it is for the apex body of the Federation to take a decision whether they are
in need of it or not. If any change is required then the issue should come up
before the House for majority decision otherwise there is no necessity in
discussing upon the post of Adviser/Patron or any other change proposed in
the constitution amendments.
SHRI SHALIK RAM, GENL. SECY/DMWPOA - he thanked NWRPOA for good
arrangements. The issue of Adviser was discussed in AGM at Mumbai then at
ECM at New Delhi, ECM at Madurai and now again in the current AGM we are
discussing the same thing. It is not understood why the issue is discussed
again and again. We should discuss it once and finalise it forever so that
unnecessary time and energy should not be wasted which can be utilized for
fruitful discussion on other important issues. He informed the House that for
the last one year new Exe. Body of IRPOF is functioning smoothly and all the
DPCs are convened without any problem hence, his unit find no reason for
amendment of the constitution. The post of Adviser/Patron is required if we
find that the Exe body is not capable to handle the difficult situation. He
further mentioned that all the dues have been cleared by his unit and all
promotee officers working in DMW are members of Benevolent Fund. The
membership of Benevolent fund is 100% in his unit and there is no further
scope for enrolling new members. The list of Benevolent fund uploaded on the
website includes the names of retired members and also of those who have
expired. What is the necessity to have the names of the members who cease to
be the members of Benevolent Fund after retirement. Speaking on the
Reservation issue he mentioned that it is a serious problem and Railway Board
should take a stand and correspond with UPSC or DOPT so that DPC for
promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ are started immediately. Duties and
responsibilities of office bearers of Federation should be allotted and intimated
to all affiliated association.
SHRI N. Sundarajan, DELEGATE, ICFPOA - he welcome all the delegates
and appreciated the arrangements made for the meeting. The website of the
Federation needs to be more attractive and presentable. Federation should
hire some professional and take action in this regard. The PROP magazine
should be issued and if there is problem of finances then we can think of
having cheaper version of PROP rather than bound book with glossy cover.
Speaking on constitution amendments he mentioned that retired office bearers
having immense experience and of high value should be associated and
accommodated in the Federation in the capacity of Adviser. He assured that
current dues of Affiliation fee will be cleared soon and other outstanding dues
will be also taken care of. The Association who are in habit of not paying the
dues should be debarred from the meetings of the Federation otherwise the
Associations who are regularly clearing their dues will hesitate to pay them in
time. He highlighted the problem of officers utilized in teaching capacity or as
Principal in PTC are not being paid 30% teaching allowance. Similarly other
issues which have been highlighted by previous delegates should be taken up
seriously and resolved expeditiously.
SHRI M.K. GAIKWAD, DELEGATE/BHUSAWAL, CENTRAL RAILWAY - he
raised the issue of grant of GP 5400 to all Group ‘B’ officers. The financial
status of the Federation is not good as we had been listening since past hence,
to analyse the ground realities the committee needs to be formed to understand
the problem and suggest ways and means to tackle the issue. DPCs for
promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ should not be stopped for any reason,
Federation should take necessary steps and get the issue resolved otherwise
promotee officers will suffer an irreparable loss.
SHRI HUKAM SINGH, XEN/NCR - he mentioned that Federation should take
up the issue of Career progression of Group’B’ officers as per DOP&T
guidelines. When there is delay in conducting DPCs then why DPCs for three
years cannot be conducted simultaneously. He raised the issue of DPC of Civil
Engg being delayed whereas DPC of Accounts and Personnel have already
been conducted. He cautioned the Federation that if due attention is not given
then there is a chance of disintegration of IRPOF as equal consideration is not
given to all departments. The gap within different departments for induction to
Group’A’ is widening with every passing year and it has risen to more than 5
years. Group’A’ promotee officers are also facing problems as their issues are
not being resolved and we should think of having separate body for them.
SHRI M. SAR, GENL. SECY/CLWPOA - appreciating the arrangements made
by NWRPOA he raised the issue of induction to Group’A’ and mentioned that
50% vacancies as per Recruitment rules should be taken into consideration for
promotion from Group ‘ B’ to Group ‘A’ . He further highlighted that promotee
officers already inducted to Group ‘A’ are waiting for JAG confirmation in all
the departments and if orders are not issued in the month of December itself
then the concerned officers will be at loss of one increment. Federation should
expedite JAG confirmation.
SHRI S.K. DAGOR, PRESIDENT/WCRPOA - he thanked President/IRPOF for
giving him the opportunity to highlight the important issues. The report
submitted by Secy. General is complete in all respect and there is no need to
discuss it further as already clarification has been given on the issues which
were highlighted. He informed the House that even the quota of 411 posts is
not being utilized 100% and we are facing loss of promotion from Group ‘B’ to
Group ‘A’. The instructions of DOP&T DT. 12.10.1998 regarding retired officers
in zone of consideration and formation of extended panel as per 1996
instructions are not being implemented and we are getting short panels in all
the departments. Federation should raise this issue with Railway Board and
ensure that panel of 411 is issued for each Vacancy year. The DPC for
induction to Group’A’ have been stalled for seeking clarification from DOP&T
on the reservation issue. Railway Board can give certification of adequate
representation of SC/ST in Group ‘A’ and this should resolve the crises. It is
for the Federation to convince UPSC and get the DPC process started soon. A
special meeting of the Federation can also be convened on reservation issue if
required or we can also consider meeting DOP&T Minister for intervention in
this matter. He highlighted the plight of officers against whom D&A or Vig
case is initiated. The cases keep on pending for years together thus depriving
our members of promotion which is withheld on account of pending D&A/Vig
cases. Monitoring of cases pending beyond the prescribed limit laid down for
finalization of D&A/Vig cases should be done. Railway Board should be asked
to furnish the list of cases pending for more than two years so that factual
position could be assessed. The instructions for Formal meeting should be got
reiterated from Railway Board so that new zonal railways could get the Formal
Meeting fixed in their zonal railways.
SHRI JITENDER KUMAR, OFFICE SECY/IRPOF - he expressed satisfaction
over the functioning of Federation and mentioned that the good arrangements
made by NWRPOA reflects how strong affiliated associations are. Sharing his
experience of working in Railway Board he mentioned that personal relations
play major role in chasing the pending issues and this is one of the effective
way for resolving them. He also informed the House that FROA and its
members are keenly watching induction of promotees to Group’A’ and they
have resorted to challenge our induction and DOITS in Court of law . Two
cases have already been filed one at CAT/Lucknow and another at
CAT/Hyderabad and it is learnt that FROA has also written a letter to review
and stop the DPC of promotion from Group ‘B’ to Group ‘A’. We should take it
seriously and contest effectively to maintain what we have achieved and also
fight to get our demands considered as they are pending for a long time. DPCs
for induction to Group ‘A’ should be vacancy based as per Recruitment rules.
Delay in conducting DPCs should be put on website so that all members are
aware about the reason for delay. 15% supervisory posts of Group ‘C’ are going
to be upgraded to Group ‘B’ which will further increase stagnation in the cadre
for induction to Group ‘A’. Pay Commission for Railway should be separate as
railways is having their separate budget. Federation should circulate the draft
memorandum seeking views and suggestions of all the units. We should fight
for transparent transfer policy of officers as we know that only promotee
officers of Accounts department on induction to Group ;’A’ are being shifted
whereas directly recruited Accounts officers are working in their same railway
for more than 10 years and have been elevated to JAG without transferring
them. The website of IRPOF should be updated on weekly basis.
SHRI PRADEEP KUMAR, ORG. SECY/SWR - in the given circumstances it is
understood that since number of posts for induction to Group ‘A’ are fixed for
all the departments in organised services, hence, demand of parity amongst
different departments is not justified. The additional 56 posts which the
Federation has been demanding to remove stagnation should be filled from a
common integrated seniority of all the departments which will automatically
take care of stagnation. Allocation of additional 56 posts in any ratio will fail
to tackle the problem of stagnation.
SHRI G.K. SEROHI, ORG. SECY/WR - The issue of conducting written
examination of promotee officers for induction to Group ‘A’ is not acceptable.
Many senior Group ;’B’ officers have failed in another ministry in written
examintion held and all the posts could not be filled up Federation should
consider and ensure that this system is not introduced in Railways. Selection
of Group’B’ officers should be conducted on single day over Indian Railways
this will remove the problem of the zone where selections are delayed and thus
the officers of that particular railway are placed much below in the integrated
seniority prepared on All India basis for induction to Group’A’.
SHRI N.K. SHARMA, DIVL. PRESIDENT/BKN – he welcomed all the delegates
of IRPOF who have come to attend the meeting in NWR. Unity amongst
ourselves should be given high priority if we want to achieve something. He
informed that the idea of zero expenditure in Benevolent Fund was initially
raised by him and it is very nice to know that Federation is implementing it.
The struggle fund was created by the Federation with the idea that it will be
utilized to fight for common issues decided by the House. The Court case filed
by Shri Y.S. Chaudhary of Northern Railway was won in Principal bench in
New Delhi but IRPOF did not support and the railways went for appeal in High
Court. The issues of common cause should be taken up by Federation and we
should raise ourselves above our self interest then only we can think of
working for the masses. Federation should consider and raise the issue of
grant of non functional JAG as it is being done in the cadre of SAG. Speaking
on the issue of Adviser he was of the opinion that no pick and choose policy
should be adopted and a panel of experienced office bearers should be formed
for critical issues.
SHRI SUNIL JOSHI, DELEGATE/BIKANER - he appreciated the idea of
holding DPCs for two years simultaneously as it will help in resolving the delay
which we are facing in holding of DPCs for induction to Group ‘A’. He cited the
example that an officer is free from Vig cases on the date of DPC but if any case
is inflicted lateron then he will be deprived of Group’A’ induction. If the DPCs
are convened in time and panel issued then he would have benefitted and also
empanelled. He desired that Federation should take up this issue with the
Railway Board and cases only related to Vacancy year should be given
cognizance.
SHRI R.K. VASHIST, DELEGATE, BIKANER - he raised the issue of same
work same pay for Group’B’ officers and on this logic GP 5400 should be given
to all Group’B’ officers as the posts in Asstt. Scale and Jr. Time Scale are
interchangeable with same duties. The criteria to grant 80% upgradation
should be modified and all officers on completion of three years of service
should be given GP 5400 instead of making calculation based on roll strength .
SHRI R.P. CHAND, ORG. SECY/NER - he appreciated NWR for good
arrangements and asked the Federation to raise the issue of inclusion of
spouse in Special passes issued for ECM and AGM of the Federation. He
expressed his opinion that DPCs for induction to Group ‘A’ should not be
stopped but should be continued provisionally with a rider of review on receipt
of final decision regarding reservation in promotion under correspondence with
UPSC and DOP&T. He suggested that APO or SPO/Gaz working in zonal
railways should be nominated as Benevolent Fund secretary because they will
be able to enroll all Group’B’ officers who are promoted by them. He further
desired that roll of Org. Secy should be clear so that he may be able to function
effectively. He further mentioned that officers after rendering services for more
than 6-7 years are still waiting for 80% upgradation to GP 5400. Selection of
Group’B’ officers are held up for one reason or the other hence Federation
should consider of revising policy instructions and 80% upgradation should be
related to sanction strength and not on roll basis. To over come the problems
of Group’B’ selection centralized selection should be held on single day over all
Indian railways.
SHRI P. SANTHANAGOPAL, ORG. SECY/SERPOA - the benefit of 80%
upgradation to PPS has already been given on completion of four years service
hence, similar benefit should also be extended to other Misc categories. The
benefit being given under Benevolent Fund to the members of the deceased
family needs to be enhanced to Rs.2,00,000/- keeping in view increased
enrollment of members in Benevolent Fund in year 2013.
SHRI PANIGRAHI, DELEGATE, ECOR - he raised the issue of short panels
being issued for induction to Group’A’ with special reference to Civil
engineering. He mentioned that the quota of Civil Engg for induction to
Group’A’ is of 72 posts per year and the panel of 144 officers should have been
issued for year 2010-11 & 2011-12. The short panels issued have deterrent
impact on promotional prospects of Group’B’ officers and this should be looked
into so that allotted quota is utilized fully.
The Open Session of AGM/IRPOF was held on 19.12.2013 which was
attended by all the delegates of the Federation. Large number of members of
NWRPOA were also present. The undernoted esteemed guests also spared their
valuable time and addressed the gathering.
1. Shri U.S. Jha, Genl. Secy/AIRPFA.
2 Shri Mukesh Mathur, Genl. Secy/NWREU (AIRF).
3. Shri Vinod Mehta, Genl. Secy/UPRMS (NFIR).
4. Shri B.L. Bairwa, Genl. Secy/AISC/ST Association.
5. Shri J.P. Singh, Ex. President/IRPOF & President/ECRPOA.
6. Shri Jitendra Singh, Ex. Secy. Genl/IRPOF.
7. Shri Gopi Ram, ex. Secy. Finance/IRPOF
8. Shri Wadhawan, ex. President/NWRPOA
9. Shri Subhash Rawat, Ex. Genl. Secy/NWRPOA.
Secretary General/IRPOF highlighted the issues pending for long time
and emphasis was laid on Grade pay Rs.5400 to all officers of organised
services and Misc. categories at par with Accounts department. Delay in DPCs
and its adverse impact on career progression of Group ‘B’officers was explained
in detail with special reference to acute stagnation being faced by three
departments vis Civil, Accounts and Personnel for induction to Group’A’.
Recent crisis regarding decision of UPSC not to convene DPCs of
promotion from Group’B’ to Group’A’ involving reservation of SC/ST in
promotions will further delay DPCs and many Group’B’ officers who are on the
verge of retirement will be deprived of this benefit besides loosing the benefit of
enhanced settlement dues. It was clearly mentioned that the efforts will be
made to resolve the issue by negotiations and if the issue is kept lingering on
and our promotions are stalled then the Federation will have to think to go for
agitation to press their legitimate demands of convening DPCs as per DOP&T
calendar.
All the representatives of various Federation were requested to make
effective use of PREM meetings and we should not get swayed away by the
Board’s plan. There is an utmost necessity of having coordination meetings of
all the Federation who are members of PREM group a day before PREM meeting
so that issues of great concern related to welfare and promotional prospects of
staff and officers could be taken up effectively. IRPOF thanked AIRF, NFIR,
AIRPFA and SC/ST Association for extending support and guidance and
showing their concern to our pending issues and we hope that in future too
similar cooperation and support will be extended by them.
Shri U.S. Jha, Genl. Secy/AIRPFA expressed his support to the demands
of IRPOF and urged all the Federation to put up a collective leadership so that
equal importance is given to all PREM members and we do not get divided on
petty issues. Members of other Federations and Association also extended
their support and expressed their solidarity in resolving the problems of IRPOF.
Secy. General/IRPOF thanked all the guests, delegates and members for
coming and giving their support.
REPLY BY SECRETARY GENENRAL
I am thankful to all the delegates for giving their valuable suggestions. I
agree with the views put forward by some of the members that meeting should
be conducted seriously and delegates should be present in all the sessions.
The revised Constitution Review Committee was formed in accordance with the
decisions taken in the ECM meeting held at Madurai. I would like to mention
that any decision taken by the House by majority should be accepted and
welcome by all the members irrespective of the facts that he was having any
difference of opinion with that. The DPCs for promotion from Group’B’ to
Group’A’ was held for two years together after this House agreed that we
should go for two years DPCs to minimize the delay. Accordingly DPCs for
2010-11 & 2011-12 were conducted and now DPCs for 2012-13 & 2013-14 are
under process. It is obvious that when DPCs are conducted on the same date
then DOITS will also be same for all the officers irrespective of the facts
whether he is empanelled in first year or second year. Once we are in a
position that backlog of DPCs is cleared then annually DPCs will be conducted.
The idea of convening special meeting or seminar for Misc cadre is appreciated
and as discussed Federation will be holding one day meeting at New Delhi in
the month of March/April, 2014. All the Genl. Secretaries are requested to
nominate delegates from the Misc cadre so that their issues could be taken
care off. The issue of DPCs not being conducted by UPSC is a very serious
matter and the concern shown by all of you is genuine. Federation is trying its
best to raise the issue at all levels and we are hopeful that the problem will be
resolved soon. In case we are unable to get the process of DPCs restarted then
all of us should be mentally prepared to go for an agitation as the career
prospects of our members is being hampered badly. The proposal of
continuing of publication of PROP will be taken care of and as mentioned by
many delegates the Annual issue of PROP of 2013 will be published
incorporating all the details. The issue of stagnation in three departments i.e.
Civil, Accounts and Personnel needs to be tackled. The issue of grant of
additionality of posts is pending for very long time and no results are
forthcoming despite regular persuasion by Federation. The proposal given by
some delegates to control & regulate induction to Group’B’ is not practically
feasible as it will hamper promotional prospects of Senior supervisors working
in Group’C’. We agree with the proposal that many of our members who have
been inducted to Group ‘A’ are awaiting JAG confirmation or Selection grade
promotion. Federation should also safeguard their interest but the first and
foremost priority of the Federation is to look into the promotional prospects,
induction of Group’B’ to Group’A’ and other allied matters including the
problems of Misc cadre officers. Our Federation initially started as Class II
Federation and should stick to its basic concept and also take necessary steps
for our Group ‘A’ members. All JAG DPCs are under process and Federation
has requested CRB, MS & Secretary, Railway Board to expedite and take
necessary steps so that confirmation orders are issued before 31.12.2013 so
that officer concerned may benefit by getting increment in July, 2014. No
Formal Meeting of Federation was held in 2013 with Railway Board due to
problems at apex level and non availability of Member Staff. Federation has
submitted agenda but meeting could not be fixed and Railway Board have
assured that it will be convened soon. The issue of EDP cadre was also
discussed and Federation would like that action as per existing Recruitment
rules is taken without any partisan role favouring any department or cadre.
We should understand that officers of Misc cadre and Mech cadre both are our
members and justice should be done to all of them. In case there is any
conflict of interest then the issue will be placed before the House to take a
judicious decision to decide the course of action to be adopted by the
Federation. The problem of Account officers are very genuine and it is the
only department wherein transfers are being done on induction to Group ‘A’.
The issue was discussed with FC and he was requested that minimum
transfers should be resorted and adjustments should be made so that in case
transfers are inescapable then transfer should be resorted to adjoining railway.
But the request of Federation was not considered and mass scale orders are
being issued dislodging the officers from one end to the other end of the Indian
Railways. Federation will take up this issue with Railway Board and a
transparent policy of transfer will be demanded to safeguard the interest of
Group ‘B’ officers. As regards VII CPC is concerned yet the draft terms of
reference are to be issued and then only we can go forward for constitution of
committee for preparation of draft memorandum to be submitted to VII CPC.
However, we should start interaction with our members and short list the
important issue which may be incorporated in the memorandum. Organising
Secretaries should take up this task and come forward with suggestions from
their railways in this regard. D&A and Vig cases not being finalized for long
period is not a healthy practice and this issue will be taken up at the apex
level because many members are facing hardships on this account. We should
concentrate on our demands and not get swayed by the functioning of others.
FROA is free to raise any issue whether it is based on rules or not. The Court
cases filed by members of FROA should be contested effectively by our
representatives working in the concerned zonal railways and there is no need
to get panic. The functioning of Federation is based on principles and
transparent and we need not bother about the elements who are trying to
create an atmosphere by challenging the legitimate issues related to our
members in the court of law or through correspondence. Federation was able
to succeed in getting the DOITS of Elect officers of 2010-11 & 2011-12 issued
despite all the obstacles and hurdles placed by FROA. The need of the hour is
to maintain unity and work sincerely for the betterment of our railway and our
organization. Besides above many other issues very relevant and related to our
members were raised during the discussion and I assure that Federation will
definitely work on them and try to achieve and resolve the issues highlighted
by the delegates present.
In the last I would thank all the units for extending full support and
cooperation during the last year and seek similar cooperation in the days to
come. The efforts made by all of you for enrolment of new members in
Benevolent fund scheme are highly appreciable and keeping this in view the
demand of enhancing the amount paid to the family of deceased member has
been agreed upon to enhance to Rs.2,00,000/- w.e.f. 1.1.2014. Now we should
further launch a drive for further enrolment so that we may be able to sustain
this. The proposal of constitution amendment granting zonal status to RDSO
and inclusion of two posts of Advisers have been passed by the House and this
will definitely help in the cause of better functioning of the organization.
Though Metro railway was also accorded the zonal status but they have
insisted to maintain status quo for the present as they will not be able to meet
the liability which was accepted by the House. Two posts of advisers has also
been agreed and passed by the house. The incumbents for these posts will be
finalized and decided by the ECM scheduled to be held in Feb/March at
GKP/NER.
I would thank all the delegates and affiliated units for extending their
support and giving their valuable suggestions and views on critical issues
which helps us in formulation of the strategies to resolve them. We seek
similar cooperation and support in future and wish you all a VERY HAPPY
AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR.
Sd/-
(RAMAN KUMAR SHARMA)
Secretary General/IRPOF
DECISIONS TAKEN
1. Amount of benefit to be given to the family of deceased member of
Benevolent Fund is increased to Rs.2,00,000/- w.e.f. 1.1.2014.
2. Constitution amendments granting zonal status and facilities to RDSO
and Metro Kolkata was passed unanimously and hence forth they will be
awarded all the facilities at par with other zonal railways and will also pay
equivalent Affiliation fee and contribution for AGM/ECMs at par with zonal
railways. Metro Railway expressed their inability to pay the dues at par with
zonal railways and it was agreed to maintain status quo as regards Metro,
Kolkata is concerned. Constitution amendment only to the extent of granting
facilities to RDSO at par with zonal Railways was passed.
3. Constitution amendment for incorporating two posts of Advisers was
also passed subject to stipulations and rules framed regarding this post. The
names of the Adviser will be decided in the next ECM of the Federation
scheduled to be held in the Month of February/March, 2014 in NE Railway,
Gorakhpur.
4. The calendar of ECM/AGM as passed by the House is as under :
(a) 1st ECM/IRPOF on 6th & 7th March, 2014 at Gorakhpur.
(b) 2nd ECM/IRPOF in the month of August, 2014 at ECR, Patna
(c) AGM/IRPOF in the month of November/December, 2014 at ECoR
at Bhubneswar/Puri or Vishakhapatnam.
5. A separate one day meeting/seminar of Misc. cadre should be held to
analyse their problems and discuss the matter to resolve them. It was agreed
to hold this meeting in March/April, 2014 at Delhi.
6. DPCs for promotions from Group’B’ to Group’A’ has been stopped by
UPSC for want of clarification from DOP&T regarding issue of reservation of
SC/ST in promotion to be taken up by the Federation with Railway Board,
UPSC & DOP&T. Assistance should also be sought from other Federations and
all possible efforts should be made to get it resolved at the earliest.
7. Federation should approach Railway Board for getting the instructions of
formal Meeting reiterated to all zonal railways and production units as
difficulties are being faced by the Affiliated associations in getting the meeting
fixed.
8. A link in the discussion forum on irpof website should be provided
exclusively for Misc cadre so that they may be able to post their views and
problems faced by them. Federation should also upload seniority list of Misc
cadre on website of IRPOF and it should be made more attractive and
informative. Recruitment rules of all the organized services and Misc cadre
should be uploaded. Federation should obtain suggestions in this regard from
Genl. Secretaries and necessary modifications be done keeping in view the
feasibility and availability of space.
9. PROP should be issued regularly and its frequency can be reduced to
three magazine in a year. Annual issue of PROP for year 2013 be issued before
next meeting. All Genl. Secretaries were requested to send advertisements for
PROP so that it should be made financially viable.
10. The Court cases involving policy issues should be contested by the Genl.
Secretary of the respective zone where the case has been filed for effective
chasing and monitoring. Genl. Secy/SCR to contest OA filed by Direct IRSEE
officer in CAT/Hyderabad challenging DOITS of panel pertaining to year 2010-
11 & 2011-12. Similarly, Genl. Secy. Northern Railway will contest OA in
CAT/LKO. Genl. Secy. should intimate Federation as and when case is filed in
their jurisdiction related to promotee officer so that necessary steps could be
taken to contest and safeguard the interest of our members.
11. Special drive should be launched for enrollment of Members in
Benevolent Fund. All new and entrants to Group’B’ should be motivated to join
the scheme. Old members should also be approached to join the new scheme
by paying difference of Rs.1500/-.
12. The House decided not to waive off any outstanding dues pending
against any zonal units or production unit as this will lead to a situation where
units paying regularly their dues will also resort to not paying their dues and
avail the facility of waiver.
13. Proposal for enhancing the amount paid to host unit for conducting
ECM/AGM to Rs.75000/120000/- respectively by increasing contribution to
Rs.12000/- & Rs.5000/- from zonal railways and production units was not
accepted by the House.
CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS (JAIPUR)
Constitution review committee was constituted as per decision taken in
ECM of IRPOF held on 26 & 27th Sept., 2013 at Madurai. Shri Deepak Shelly,
President of IRPOF and Shri S. S. Parashar, Genl. Secy/NCRPOA were
nominated as Chairman and Convener respectively. Besides them five
members were also nominated in the Constitution Review Committee which
was circulated through Federation letter dt. 30.9.2013.
After considering all the proposals the Committee submitted the
undernoted amendments to the Constitution of IRPOF unanimously.
1 Since Zonal Railway status has been accorded to RDSO and Metro
hence, Federation should consider and extend all facilities at par to
RDSO and Metro in Federation activities and treat them as Zonal
Railways.
2. Post of Adviser/Advisers/Patron/Consultant or any other capacity may
be included in the Constitution and rules regarding its tenure
methodology to fill them along with their duties and responsibilities to be
decided by the House. The incumbent will not be part of the Executive
Body.
The proposals submitted by the Constitution review committee were
placed before the House in the AGM held on 19th & 20.12.2013 at Jaipur
(NWR). The undernoted amendments were passed by the majority votes and
adopted by the House.
CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS PASSED IN ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING HELD AT JAIPUR ON 19TH & 20TH DECEMBER, 2013
Para 6 (b) of the Constitution is amended as under :
The General Body of the Federation shall consist of all the members of the Executive Committee and two members from each Zonal Railways and RDSO.
New Para 6 (j)is inserted in the Constitution is as under :
Para 6(j)(i) Two Advisers will be associated to assist the Federation. They will not be the member of the Executive Committee or General Body. The
Advisers can be retired Office bearers or member of the Affiliated Associations. Existing Office bearers of the Federation or Association
can also be nominated as Adviser but they will have to quit the existing post held by them in Federation or Association.
(ii) The Tenure of Adviser will co terminate when the existing Executive Body
is reconstituted and elections are held. Fresh nomination/election for the post of Adviser will be done after formation of New Executive Body as per rules contains in the bye laws.
AMENDMENTS TO BYE LAWS
Para 13 as under will be inserted in the Bye laws
13. RULES GOVERNING THE POST OF ADVISERS
13.1. The Adviser/Advisers of IRPOF will co-terminate when the existing body of
IRPOF goes for fresh election.
13.2. After election of Annual General Body meeting the new Executive Body will
place the proposal for nomination/Election of Adviser/Advisers before the
House.
13.3. If the post of Adviser is not filled in the Election AGM then the proposal will be
placed before next ECM for consideration.
13.4. The functioning of Adviser will be reviewed in Annual General Body
meeting of IRPOF and the House can allow an incumbent to continue or
he/she may be replaced by suitable incumbent by the House.
13.5. Federation will not incur any expenditure for running of office of Adviser or pay
any expenditure related to conveyance, travelling etc. No Honorarium or any
remuneration will be paid by the Federation
13.6. Adviser will have a limited role with regard to only giving advice and views on
issues/subjects referred to him/her by President and Secretary General/IRPOF
or ECM/AGM.
13.7. Adviser will not correspond on any issue with the Railway Board, General
Managers or any other authority. He/she will also not indulge in day to day
activities of the Federation and make no correspondence with Divl. Bodies or
Zonal Associations affiliated to the Federation.
13.8. Adviser will not hold any press briefing on behalf of the Federation, and will
also not seek any favour or Privileges in the capacity of Adviser/IRPOF.
13.9. Adviser will inform Federation of all the activities being done by him related to
promotee officers. He will abide by the line of action decided by IRPOF on all
matters.
13.10. The advice given by him will not be binding on the Federation, it can be
accepted or rejected by the Secretary General/IRPOF. However, the issues not
accepted can be taken up in ECM or AGM for review.
13.11. The post of Adviser is not part of the Executive Body. He/she can attend
Emergent, ECM and AGM meetings of the Federation but will not deliberate on
the issue. Adviser will be allowed to address the House at the convenience of
the Federation, as and when required.
13.12. Adviser will not indulge in activities prejudicial to the interest of the Federation
or Affiliated constituent units or detrimental to the interest of the members.