EPFO Circular - Rule 20 Violation

⚖ EPFO Official Circular

Rule 20 of CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964

कर्मचारी भविष्य निधि संगठन Employees Provident Fund Organisation
(श्रम एवं रोजगार मंत्रालय) (MINISTRY OF LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA)
Plate A, Ground Floor, Block II, East Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi-110023

📋 Circular No.: HRM-IV/VIPReferences/2025/1219494/520

📅 Date: 12 December 2025

📬 Addressed To: All ACC (HQ)/ACC Zones

1 Overview of Issue

A number of VIP references and recommendations have recently been received at the Head Office regarding transfer requests of staff posted across various Zones. These communications originate from Hon'ble Members of Parliament and other dignitaries seeking consideration of specific transfer requests.

2 Established Transfer System

Such references continue to be received despite the existence of well-established and transparent systems for handling transfer-related matters. EPFO has a clearly laid-down Transfer Policy, and a robust grievance redressal mechanism under which all requests and grievances are examined with due sympathy and fairness.

All officials may place their requests during the Annual General Transfers

Cases are considered on merit within the prescribed framework

External references are neither necessary nor required

3 Previous Year's Transfer Statistics

The previous year's transfer cycle reflects the substantial work undertaken across cadres to address staff requests and grievances:

★ Group 'C' Permanent Interstate Transfers: 269

★ Temporary Mutual Interstate Transfers: 78

★ Permanent Mutual Interstate Transfers: 70

★ Grievances Resolved: 117

4 Confirmation of Transfer Process

The established mechanisms for considering transfer requests are adequate, transparent, and fair. Staff may be reassured that their cases are given due consideration within the prescribed framework.

5 Rule 20 of CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964

📜 Rule 20: Canvassing of Non-Official or Other Outside Influence

"No Government servant shall bring or attempt to bring any political or other outside influence to bear upon any superior authority to further his interests in respect of matters pertaining to his service under the Government."

6 Government Instructions & Guidelines

Attention is invited to the Government of India's consolidated instructions (OMs of 1963, 1985, 1990, 1995, 1997 and 1999), which emphasize that:

Government servants should NOT approach Members of Parliament for individual service matters

Political persons should not be contacted for transfers or postings

Outside authorities should not be approached for service-related matters

Ministries/Departments must ignore representations made through relatives

Strict action should be taken against such misconduct

7 Action Required from ACC Zones

All ACC Zones are requested to take appropriate action to sensitize the officials under their Zone. Officials must be specifically informed and advised that:

⚠ Important Notice

Such acts are PROHIBITED under Rule 20 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, and any violation of the said rule amounts to MISCONDUCT.

8 Compliance Direction

All Departments and Organizations must ensure strict compliance with these instructions and take appropriate corrective measures against any violation.

📥 Download Official PDF

Access the official EPFO circular from the Government of India's official EPF website.

📄 Download Original PDF

📌 Important Points to Remember

• → Never approach MPs or political persons for service matters
• → Use the official Transfer Policy and grievance redressal mechanism
• → Apply during the Annual General Transfers for merit-based consideration
• → Violations of Rule 20 constitute misconduct and invite disciplinary action

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