In a major relief for hundreds of state transport employees, the Andhra Pradesh government has sanctioned a crucial proposal to offer alternative government jobs or monetary compensation to those declared medically unfit for duty. This decision addresses a long-standing grievance of employees who were merged into government service but later found unable to continue their original roles.
Government Order Implements Long-Awaited Relief
The formal approval came through a government order issued by Special Chief Secretary (Transport, Roads & Buildings) M T Krishna Babu on Friday. The order, GO MS No 58, officially sets the policy into motion. The decision is notably made effective retrospectively from January 1, 2020, covering employees who were absorbed into government service from the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) under the Public Transport Department (APPTD).
Transport Minister Mandipalli Ram Prasad Reddy welcomed the move, stating that the state government had sympathetically examined the persistent issues faced by these APPTD employees. He confirmed that the administration has now initiated appropriate remedial measures to resolve the matter.
Two-Pronged Approach: Jobs and Compensation
The resolution follows a structured approach based on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. According to an official release, Minister Ramprasad Reddy outlined the plan.
Eligible employees who fall under the definitions of the Disabilities Act will be provided alternative employment opportunities on a priority basis. The government will facilitate their appointment in suitable positions within the Transport Department or other government departments with the support and coordination of district collectors.
For those employees who were declared medically unfit but do not qualify under the approved list of the Disabilities Act, the government has decided to extend monetary compensation as per the existing rules of the RTC. This ensures that no employee affected by medical unfitness is left without a solution.
Unions and Officials Applaud the Decision
The government's decision has been met with appreciation from the employees' representatives. The APSRTC Employees Union (EU) publicly lauded the move to provide alternative employment. They extended thanks to Special Chief Secretary Krishna Babu, APSRTC Managing Director Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, and other higher authorities for their efforts in securing a positive resolution for the welfare of the RTC staff.
This policy marks a significant step in safeguarding the livelihoods of government employees whose careers were interrupted due to health reasons, ensuring they are either rehabilitated into the workforce or provided financial security.
