Deputation appointment of telecom-cadre officer in Prasar Bharati junked

In an order that could potentially provide relief to nearly 450 officers of the Indian Broadcasting (Program) Service (IBPS) cadre, which forms the backbone of Prasar Bharati for its content, the Guwahati Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal has struck down the appointment of an officer on deputation from the Indian Telecommunication Service (ITS) cadre and sought initiation of the process to promote IBPS officers to fill the vacancy.

The order raises questions about appointment through deputation in place of posts for IBPS cadre, and threatens 85 officers working in Prasar Bharati on deputation from other cadres. It also paves the way for promotion of 449 IBPS cadre officers who have got only one initial promotion, which was also delayed, in their service.