Validity of Appointment Offer & Fixation of Seniority in Odisha

Issued by: General Administration & Public Grievance (GA & PG) Department, Government of Odisha

Office Memorandum No: 26540  |  Date: 20 September 2019

The GA & PG Department, Government of Odisha has issued this Office Memorandum to prescribe uniform principles regarding the validity period of appointment offers, extension of joining time and fixation of inter-se seniority in cases where candidates join after revalidation of appointment orders.

The Memorandum applies to direct recruitment in Group A, B and C posts under the State Government.

Key Provisions of OM No. 26540

1️⃣ Validity of Appointment Offer

Every offer of appointment must clearly indicate that it shall lapse automatically if the candidate does not join the post within a period not exceeding 30 days from the date of issue of the appointment order.

2️⃣ Extension of Joining Time

If a candidate applies for extension within the initial 30 days, the appointing authority may grant extension if satisfied. However:

• The total period including extension shall not exceed six months
• Candidates joining within six months will retain seniority as per select list merit

3️⃣ Automatic Lapse after Six Months

If a candidate does not join even after the extended period, the appointment order shall lapse automatically on completion of six months from the date of issue of the original appointment order.

A formal order declaring lapse shall be issued by the concerned establishment.

4️⃣ Revival of Lapsed Appointment Orders

Revival of a lapsed appointment order is not ordinarily admissible. In exceptional circumstances, revival may be considered only:

• In public interest
• Within one year from approval/publication of the select list or next recruitment, whichever is earlier
• After mandatory consultation with GA & PG Department

5️⃣ Fixation of Seniority after Revival

Where a lapsed appointment order is revived, the seniority of the candidate shall be fixed below all candidates who joined the post within the stipulated six-month period.

What is the maximum validity of an appointment offer?

Appointment offers lapse if not joined within 30 days, extendable up to a maximum of six months.

Can a lapsed appointment order be revived?

Yes, but only in exceptional cases, in public interest, and after consultation with GA & PG Department.

Will seniority be protected after revival?

No. Seniority will be fixed below candidates who joined within the prescribed six-month period.

Which posts are covered under this OM?

All first appointments in Group A, B and C posts under the Government of Odisha.