Employees Must Be in Office by 9:15 AM: Central Government Orders

Many people believe that government employees do not arrive at the office on time and come as they please. This is often the case in many places. However, the Central Government has now made it clear that this practice will no longer be allowed. Employees must mark their attendance via biometric systems by 9:15 AM, failing which they will have to take leave for that day. These instructions were issued by the Department of Personnel and Training.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, employees avoided using biometric systems due to fear of the virus, and many are still not using it in several places. It is reported that attendance is being recorded in registers as before, allowing employees to mark themselves as on time even if they arrive late. In this context, the Central Government has issued fresh orders making biometric attendance mandatory. Employees are advised to inform their supervisors in advance and apply for casual leave if they anticipate being late. Additionally, it has been specified that the "out punch" should be done after 5:30 PM.

Employee Reactions:

Employees state that they often have to work beyond office hours and sometimes even on holidays. They explain that even if they arrive late in the morning, they work until late in the evening. They claim to work beyond regular hours and sometimes from home as well. Employees argue that it is unfair to count a mere fifteen-minute delay as a day's leave without recognizing their additional efforts.