Centre Whips Employees: 'Reach By 9:15 am or receive 1/2 Day leave'

The Centre has just directed employees across the country to arrive for work by no later than 9:15 am using their Aadhaar-enabled biometric system, failing which a half-day casual leave will be deducted.

The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has issued a circular instructing employees to arrive at their offices by 9:15 am and record their attendance using the Aadhaar-enabled biometric system. 

The circular warns habitual latecomers and early leavers and states that action may be initiated in such cases. 

"Habitual late coming and early leaving of office should be viewed seriously and discouraged. Action against the same may be initiated," the circular said.

The use of the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the order to resume using biometric services was issued in 2022. 

After taking office in 2014, the Modi government wanted to enforce specific office hours, but many employees were against it, citing long travel distances.

Revival Of Biometric System:

As a result, an Aadhaar-based biometric system was introduced to ensure everyone's punctuality. To make things easier, many senior officers had biometric devices installed on their desks to avoid waiting in line to mark their attendance.

Now, the government has decided to reinstate the biometric system, and employees are asked to give advance notice of their absence and apply for casual leave when needed.

The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly reshaped work culture, moving away from traditional norms. 

Employees argue that work-from-home culture has enhanced their productivity levels, while companies debate between remote work and in-office presence.

Central government offices operate from 9 am to 5:30 pm.