Himachal Pradesh: Government Employees Caught in Meth Trafficking to Be Dismissed Without Departmental Inquiry, Strict Orders Issued
The Himachal Pradesh government has taken a strict stance against the rising cases of meth trafficking and drugs. Government employees caught in meth trafficking can now be dismissed without departmental inquiry. The Personnel Department has issued strict instructions to all Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, MDs of Boards and Corporations, and University Registrars.
The orders state that action will be taken only after careful examination of special circumstances and facts, and it will not be applied arbitrarily. Every case must adhere to principles of natural justice and constitutional provisions.
The department clarified that under the NDPS Act 1985, in cases involving meth trafficking, possession, transport, financing, or support of drugs, employees can be dismissed without regular departmental inquiry.
Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta stated that there has been a concerning increase in meth and drug-related cases in the state. Any FIR registered against a government employee under these charges will be taken very seriously. The government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy and directed that these instructions be widely circulated across all subordinate offices to ensure strict compliance.
Under Article 311(2)(b) of the Constitution and Rule 19 of the Central Civil Services Classification, Control & Appeal Rules 1965, if a regular departmental inquiry is not feasible, the competent authority may take direct action after recording written reasons.
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