Punjab government refuses VRS to IAS officer who is BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate in Bathinda

The notice issued by the state government clarified that the three-month notice period required under Rule 16(2) had not been waived, nor had any decision been made regarding her request for VRS (Voluntary Retirement Scheme). Although she had relinquished her duties as the Managing Director of PSIDC on her own, the state government had not waived the notice period, as per the rules.

Furthermore, the notice highlighted that Parampal Kaur had requested the waiver of the three-month notice period, which can only be granted by the state government, provided certain conditions are met and reasons are recorded in writing.

The letter also referenced Parampal Kaur’s direct communication with the Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training, GOI, regarding her personal circumstances, including her mother’s health and family situation, which led the Centre to insist on the acceptance of her resignation under Rule 3.

The notice emphasized that no order had been issued regarding the acceptance of her resignation, citing a shortage of IAS officers in the state and noting Parampal’s active involvement in political activities, which contradicted the grounds for voluntary retirement mentioned in her application.

The government’s notice coincided with the first day of filing of nominations and CM Bhagwant Mann’s roadshow in Bathinda in support of AAP candidate Gurmeet Singh Khuddian. Mann had previously hinted at taking action against her for not adhering to the resignation rules.

Parampal Kaur, the daughter-in-law of former minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sikandar Singh Maluka, had tendered her resignation on April 3 while serving as the Managing Director of Punjab State Industrial Development Corporation (PSIDC).