In a decision that gives supreme powers to the chief minister to gain complete control over the All India Service Officers in all aspects, the Andhra Pradesh government on Saturday issued an order amending the all India Services Rules.
Hitherto, the performance appraisal of an IAS officer was being done by chief secretary, that of an IPS officer by Director General of Police and that of Indian Forest Service officer by the highest authority of the department.
The superior officer of the respective administrative wing has been writing the confidential reports, reviewing the performance of the junior officers and even approving the performance appraisal reports.
Under Rule 5 of the All India Services (Performance Appraisal Report) Rules, a Performance Appraisal Report assessing the performance, character, conduct and qualities of every member of the Service shall be written for each financial year or as may be specified by the Government.
Now, all these powers have been given to chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy. Without the chief minister’s approval, no transfer of IAS officer can be made nor can their promotions be decided. Their postings, placements and seniority would be decided only by the chief minister.
Even if the IAS or IPS or IFS officer wants to go on a central deputation, he or she has to take the approval of the chief minister. Exemption was given only to the secretary of the Governor.
“This is done in order to ensure uniformity and control of the executive over the administration for effective public service delivery,” the orders said.
So, it is Jagan and only Jagan who can decide the fate of the All India Service officers!