Vijayawada, December 6, 2025 – In a significant intervention into administrative practices, the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Friday raised concerns over the extended tenures of government employees at the same posting, particularly when spouses are co-located for prolonged periods. The court has sought detailed clarifications from the state government on transfer policies and the rationale behind exemptions for couples and employees' union representatives.
A division bench of the High Court observed that such long-term assignments deprive other eligible employees of rotational opportunities in preferred locations. "The bench observed that such practices deny opportunities to other employees who wish to work in those locations and that exemptions granted to spouses and office-bearers of employees’ unions need closer scrutiny," the court noted during the hearing.
Directing the state authorities to furnish a comprehensive response, the court mandated disclosures on the permissible duration for an employee to remain in a single posting, existing transfer guidelines, and the justifications for spousal and union-related exemptions. The matter has been adjourned to the first week of January for further proceedings.
### Background of the Case
The judicial scrutiny stems from a petition involving the transfer of Majji Krishna Rao, the District Sainik Welfare Officer of Vizianagaram, who was ordered to relocate to Kakinada. In his stead, KVS Prasada Rao was appointed to the Vizianagaram position. However, reports indicate that Krishna Rao has continued performing duties in Vizianagaram without reporting to his new assignment in Kakinada.
In a counter-affidavit, the Vizianagaram District Collector highlighted this as a clear breach of disciplinary protocols. Notably, the collector revealed that Krishna Rao has been stationed in Vizianagaram for an astonishing 24 years, underscoring the very issue of stagnation the court is addressing.
### Broader Implications
This development arrives amid ongoing debates in Andhra Pradesh and across India regarding fair transfer policies that balance administrative efficiency with personal considerations, such as family unity. While spousal posting preferences are enshrined in various government orders to promote work-life harmony, the High Court's intervention signals a push for stricter enforcement to prevent misuse and ensure equity.
Legal experts suggest that the upcoming hearing could lead to revised guidelines, potentially capping tenures and refining exemption criteria. "Allowing exemptions without robust rationale could perpetuate favoritism and undermine merit-based rotations," one observer remarked, echoing the court's emphasis on transparency.
The state government has been given time until January to compile and submit the required documentation, which may include data on current exemption practices and their impact on workforce mobility.
As Andhra Pradesh navigates post-bifurcation administrative challenges, this case highlights the judiciary's role in upholding principles of fairness in public service deployments. Further updates are expected as the January hearing approaches.
By TCO News Desk
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