HSSC Legal Officers Allege Harassment by Chairman, Demand Independent Probe
In an unprecedented development, the legal team of the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) has formally lodged a complaint against the commission's authorities, accusing them of harassment and inadequate treatment. The incident, reported from Chandigarh, marks the first such case within the commission, highlighting deep-seated issues in its administrative functioning.
Complaint Details and Allegations
In a detailed 2-page complaint submitted to the additional chief secretary (ACS) of the Home Department, district attorneys and additional district attorneys have called for immediate intervention. They are urging an in-depth investigation by an independent authority to address the grievances. Sources indicate that legal officers deployed across various districts have expressed solidarity with the aggrieved staff, vowing to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion.
The complaint outlines a distressing work environment, attributing it to the persistent conduct and administrative actions of the HSSC chairman. It states, "Working atmosphere for law officers in the HSSC has become deeply distressing and professionally demoralising owing to the persistent conduct and administrative functioning of the chairman, which resulted in mental harassment, intimidation, and misuse of authority." The officers allege that despite performing their duties sincerely and in accordance with the law, they faced humiliating treatment, coercive supervision, and unwarranted interference in their professional roles.
Specific Incidents and Emotional Impact
The aggrieved officers provided specific sequences and events to support their claims. One notable example involves a senior district attorney who reportedly resigned after alleged harassment and humiliation. The complaint further elaborates on instances where officers were burdened with menial tasks, such as shifting bulky files and documents on their own, which they describe as inadequate treatment.
"The repeated use of insulting, demeaning, and aggressive language in official interactions caused severe emotional stress and seriously eroded our professional dignity," the complaint added, emphasizing the emotional toll on the legal staff. This has led to a climate of fear and demoralization, undermining their ability to function effectively.
Official Responses and Commission's Stance
When contacted, officials from the office of the ACS Home confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated that it is currently under scrutiny. In response, Himmat Singh, the Chairman of HSSC, defended the commission's actions, linking the allegations to initiatives aimed at reducing litigation.
Singh explained, "We have the interest of lakhs of candidates in our mind. As of now, we have around 2,700 litigations and over 120 contempts pending in various courts. There were examples where written replies were not filed for 4 years despite repeated warnings by the court. We are just streamlining the system." He asserted that the commission is open to any probe as demanded and will cooperate fully with investigating agencies.
He further added, "We are moving on the right track to ensure maximum employment drives by reducing litigations," indicating that the measures taken are part of broader efforts to improve efficiency and serve candidates better. However, the legal team's complaint suggests that these efforts may have come at the cost of employee welfare and professional dignity.
This case raises significant questions about workplace ethics and governance within public commissions, potentially impacting future recruitment processes and legal proceedings in Haryana.
