Assam Forest dept faces allegations of illegal promotions

Guwahati: The Assam Forest Department is under fire for allegedly promoting 10 Assistant Conservators of Forests (ACFs) to Deputy Conservators of Forests (DCFs), violating service rules.

The Assam Forest Department, through a notification (No: ECF 344794/944) dated February 22, 2024, promoted a total of 26 ACFs to DCFs.

Ten of these promotions are being challenged as blatant violations of the Assam Forest Service Act and established service rules. The promotions allegedly bypassed experienced rangers who have dedicated years to their careers.

The core issue is the bypassing of the standard promotion process. Typically, it takes a Forest Ranger 13 to 15 years to become an ACF, followed by another 5 to 7 years to reach the DCF position. However, these 10 ACFs allegedly secured their promotions within a much shorter timeframe, raising serious questions about fairness and transparency.

ACF Promoted to DCF in Days?

A report by Asomiya Pratidin, a local newspaper, highlights the case of a "forester" who retired upon reaching the ACF position, implying they might have secured the role through unfair means.

Furthermore, the report points out the lack of a departmental service rule allowing direct promotion from ACF to DCF. The standard procedure mandates at least five years of service as ACF before DCF eligibility.

Legal Opinions Ignored?

The report also mentions a legal opinion submitted by a Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) highlighting the illegality of such swift promotions. Despite this, the promotions went through, raising concerns about a potential disregard for established legal frameworks within the department.

Seniority and Service Overlooked?

The promotion of these 10 ACFs has reportedly caused resentment among existing Rangers and ACFs who have diligently served their time and awaited their turn for promotion. This alleged violation of seniority rules has cast a shadow over the department's commitment to fair promotion practices.