Lump sum financial aid if employment not possible, Odisha Law Minister hints at possible change in rehabilitation measures

In case of death of a government employee, Odisha government may take a significant decision regarding the rehabilitation of his or her family.

If employment based on the rehabilitation system is not possible, a lump sum financial aid might be provided. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has recently indicated about it.

Speaking at an event, Harichandan mentioned that according to the 1990 rehabilitation policy, if an employed family member passed away, another family member could be employed. However, changes were made in 2020 policy by the then government. This policy essentially equates to not granting a job to anyone. Consequently, situations were created where nobody received employment. 

Harichandan explained that those whose family members died before 2020 were still evaluated based on the 2020 rules. As a result, nobody received jobs. Those who applied for jobs faced legal cases instead. According to the Minister, approval of the Law Department is necessary for such matters. 

The Minister further informed that a cabinet meeting was recently held where there was much debate over the issue. Senior government officials including the Chief Secretary presented their arguments in the meeting.

The Minister suggested that if the government can’t provide jobs, a ‘golden handshake’ of Rs 30 to 40 lakh rupees could be considered as part of the rehabilitation scheme. 

The Minister informed about it at the foundation day of Public Health Engineering Organization.

According to the Minister, such measures are being considered to ensure they are employee-friendly. Harichandan assured that their policies will be conducive for the welfare of the employees and it is guaranteed.

“As per the 1990 rehabilitation policy, when a government employee of the State government died, one of his/her family members was getting the job. However, the government changed the policy in 2020. As per the new policy, a situation was created so that nobody would get the job under such circumstances.  Now the government is considering to provide ‘golden handshake’ of Rs 30 to 40 lakh rupees to a member of the family,” said Law Minister.