Uttarakhand Govt Order Mandates Approval for Purchases Over ₹5,000: Employees React With Outrage
In a move that has sparked intense debate, the Uttarakhand government has issued an official order mandating government employees to seek prior approval or report any purchase or sale of movable property exceeding ₹5,000 or one month’s salary—whichever is lower. The rule also extends to purchases made for family members, including spouses and children.
What the Order Says
Dated July 14, the directive states that any government servant who enters into a transaction exceeding ₹5,000 must immediately report the same to the appropriate authority. If the transaction is not made through a “regular and reputed businessman,” prior approval is mandatory.
This includes purchases of smartphones, home appliances, and clothing if the value exceeds the threshold. The rule also applies to immovable property—buying, selling, leasing, or gifting—which requires permission from the department head. Additionally, employees must declare all immovable properties at the time of joining and update this every five years, including for family members residing in the same household.
Outrage Among Government Employees
Many government employees, trade unions, and activists have sharply criticized the order.
Karam Ram, President of the Uttarakhand SC-ST Employees Federation, slammed the directive as “ridiculous.” He highlighted how, in today’s inflationary times, most daily-use items—especially when bought for family—cost more than ₹5,000.
“Buying a saree for your wife or clothes for children shouldn’t require departmental approval,” he said, calling for the limit to be raised to ₹1 lakh instead.
A Question of Practicality
The rule has led to widespread confusion and concern. While permission for big-ticket items like vehicles and real estate may be understandable, extending the requirement to everyday essentials like phones or home appliances has shocked employees.
The lack of prior consultation and the impractical threshold amount are major points of contention. Many argue that instead of tightening bureaucratic controls, the government should focus on transparency through digital declarations and annual disclosures—without stifling personal freedom.
Summary (60 words):
A controversial Uttarakhand government order now requires employees to report or seek approval for purchases over ₹5,000—including items like phones or clothes. While intended to promote transparency, the rule has triggered outrage among staff and unions, who call it impractical and invasive. Critics demand that the threshold be raised and that such decisions be made after due consultation.
