In a bid to enhance transparency and functioning of state-run firms, including public sector banks, the Centre has set up a Group of Officials to look into complaints against high-ranking officers in these companies.

The group, led by Secretary (Coordination) in the Cabinet Secretariat, will examine complaints against Chairmen and Managing Directors, Chief Executives, Functional Directors, Part-time and Non-official Chairpersons, Workmen Directors, Officers’ Directors and Chartered Accountant Directors of central public sector firms, public sector banks, financial institutions and public sector insurers.

“Complaints received from the Prime Ministers’ Office (PMO), Cabinet Secretariat, or Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) against these categories of officials would be dealt by the Group of Officials,” said a recent order by the DPE.

The Group of Officials, which will also include Secretaries of the Departments of Financial Services and Public Enterprises and Central Vigilance Commission, will also look into complaints received by the Cabinet Secretary from the CVC. “Anonymous and pseudonymous complaints can be filed with the approval of Secretary (Coordination) and details of such filed complaints will be placed before the Group in its next meeting for information,” said the missive.

Working in a time-bound manner, the Group can also seek comments from the nodal Ministry on the officer or call for files, if it is of the view that the complaint requires further scrutiny.

Ministries and departments would be expected to respond to its queries within 30 days and have another 15 days for furnishing any clarifications.

“In cases where the officer against whom complaint has been made is retiring in the near future, the concerned Ministry or Department will ensure submission of their reports in a strict time frame to enable the Group to submit its recommendations before the date of retirement of such officer,” said the circular.