The Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura authorities have expressed serious concern over employees proceeding on leave without prior approval despite an acute staff shortage.
In a communication issued by SKIMS authorities—while directing adherence to norms—the authorities noted that some employees proceed on leave without prior sanction from the competent authority and leave the station without approval for such leave.
“This has been taken very seriously by the authorities as it is unbecoming of a Government employee, violates service rules, and warrants disciplinary action against the defaulting employees,” the communication stated.
The authorities also pointed out that Heads of Departments (HoDs) and Sectional Heads are recommending leaves for employees without proper justification, even amid the prevailing staff shortage.
In this regard, HoDs and Sectional Heads have been instructed to recommend leave requests “very judiciously, with proper justification, until the staff strength is restored.”
Additionally, SKIMS authorities raised concerns over officers availing ex-India earned leave without following the prescribed procedure.
The communication noted that “most officers/officials are also applying for ex-India earned leave on short notice” and proceeding on leave without awaiting the requisite approval or permission to leave the country from the competent authority.
It has been directed that all SKIMS employees, including faculty members, who intend to avail earned leave or ex-India leave, must apply for approval through the concerned HoDs at least 15 days in advance.
“For ex-India leave, applications must be submitted 45 days in advance after obtaining Vigilance Clearance from the GAD (Vigilance) to ensure administrative approval is sought in time, avoiding mismanagement and maladministration,” the communication stated.
To address the issue, HoDs and Sectional Heads have been instructed not to frequently recommend leave cases.
“There is already a staff shortage, and any recommended leaves must be based on genuine grounds, keeping in view the constraints within departments,” the authorities emphasized.
All employees, including HoDs, faculty members, and Sectional Heads, have been directed to strictly adhere to these instructions. “Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action as per the rules, without further notice,” the communication warned. [KNT]