In a bid to enforce administrative accountability, the Assam government has introduced a daily penalty system for officials who delay pension file processing.
Under the new directive, responsible officials face a fine of ₹250 per day, capped at a maximum of ₹5,000, which will be automatically deducted from their monthly salary. The measure aims to streamline clearances, prevent red tape, and ensure retired public servants receive their dues promptly and with dignity.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the decision on X, stating:
"Accountability at every level is essential to make #EaseOfGovernance a reality for our people. That is why we have put in place a system that fixes responsibility for the timely clearance of pension files and penalises undue delays."
However, the initiative comes amid ongoing sharp criticism and legal battles regarding the government's treatment of retired Gaon Panchayat (GP) Secretaries.
Despite court mandates directing the state to recognize their long years of service under regular pension rules, hundreds of former GP Secretaries have faced years-long delays and denial of full pensionary benefits due to policy exclusions surrounding their regularized posts. Critics point out that while the government is penalizing administrative delays for general staff, systemic policy barriers continue to leave this vital group of rural administration retirees without their legitimate pensions.
