CBDT warns officers against political intervention in transfer postings

In a circular issued to all Principal Chief Commissioners and Director General Income Tax on October 1, the CBDT says, “Instances have come to notice where IRS officers/officials have violated the aforementioned provisions of the CCS(Conduct) Rules 1964 and attempted to bring political or other outside influence to bear upon any superior authority to further their interest in respect of matters pertaining to their service under the Government. It is necessary to keep in mind the aforesaid provisions and desist from approaching the political or any other outside influence”.

The CBDT is the topmost authority on policy-making related to direct taxes. Such an advisory from any government authority is quite unusual.

The CBDT is set to issue transfer orders for its officers in the coming days. While this is ostensibly done without fear or favour, in practice officers often try to get posted to locations that are suitable for them. Most officers seek a posting in either Mumbai or Delhi. The investigation department is considered a plum posting where officers try to exert influence through political intervention.

Postings in prime locations and departments often enable a faster climb up the organisational ladder.