Punjab Government to Ensure Adequate Representation for SC Law Officers
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Synopsis
On April 11, the Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, decided to enact an Ordinance to ensure adequate representation for Scheduled Castes members in law officer roles. The Cabinet also approved various policies aimed at administrative improvement.
Key Takeaways
- Enactment of Ordinance for SC law officer representation.
- Relaxation of income criteria for SC community.
- One-time relief for Improvement Trust allottees.
- Reorganisation of administrative blocks for efficiency.
- Extension of retirement age for medical professionals.
Chandigarh, April 11 (NationPress) The Punjab Cabinet, spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has taken a significant step by deciding to enact an Ordinance aimed at ensuring sufficient representation for members of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in the contractual hiring of law officers.
A representative from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) indicated that the Cabinet has approved the introduction of an Ordinance to amend the Punjab Law Officers (Engagement) Act, 2017.
“This initiative is designed to ease income criteria for the contractual hiring of law officers from the SC community. The relaxation in income criteria aims to ensure that members of the SC community have adequate representation in the AG's Office,” the spokesperson stated.
Additionally, the Cabinet has approved a one-time relaxation policy concerning non-construction fees and outstanding allotment amounts for allottees of Improvement Trusts.
This measure will provide substantial relief to allottees by waiving any penal interest.
To enhance geographical and administrative continuity, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and legislative coherence, the Cabinet has endorsed the reorganisation and rationalisation of the existing blocks within the state.
The adjustment of blocks is essential for ensuring improved administration in the broader public interest.
Currently, the state comprises 154 blocks, and due to certain ambiguities, various challenges have arisen in maintaining smooth administration.
The Cabinet has also agreed to extend the retirement age of doctors and professors working in medical colleges under the Medical Education and Research Department from 62 years to 65 years.
“This will contribute to the continuous delivery of quality education in medical colleges, thereby greatly benefiting the students,” the spokesperson added.
Moreover, the Cabinet has consented to recruit specialist doctors who are retiring from service to address the shortage of medical professionals in government hospitals. These specialists will be hired annually based on requirements.
