The Odisha government has ordered an inquiry into an IAS probationer's use of an amber light and a board written IAS Probationer on a private vehicle. The move came after a photo of the vehicle with the display board and amber light went viral on social media.
The General Administration Department Additional Secretary has formally written to the Collector of Kalahandi to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The directive comes amidst growing concerns regarding the conduct of young IAS officers, particularly in the Kalahandi region. This incident follows closely on the heels of the recent arrest of the Sub-Collector of Dharamgarh, also within Kalahandi District, who was apprehended while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs. 10 lakh. Dhiman Chakma, a 2021-batch IAS officer, was suspended from service following his arrest by the Vigilance Department.
The IAS probationers are governed by the Indian Administrative Service (Probation) Rules, 1954, which outline the rules for their training, evaluation, and conduct during the probationary period. These rules emphasize a two-year probationary period, which can be extended by the government, and include rigorous training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) and in the relevant state.
According to the All-India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, probationers are expected to maintain high standards of discipline, integrity, and conduct. The amber lights on vehicles are used for emergency and specialised situations and not for general use by the All-India Service Officers.
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