AIASCT Launches Phase-wise Agitational Programme to Resolve Long-Pending Service-Related Demands

 Dear Colleagues,

Warm greetings to all the Superintendents of GST & Central Excise across the country!

The All India Association of Superintendents of Central Tax (AIASCT) has launched a phase-wise agitational programme to draw the urgent attention of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the concerned authorities to long-pending service-related demands affecting Superintendents Cadre.

The decision follows repeated representations by the Association and detailed deliberations at the Central Executive Committee (CEC) Meeting held at Bhopal on 12–13 September 2026, attended by representatives from across the country. The CEC examined the persistent delays affecting career progression, unresolved service matters and welfare concerns, and adopted resolutions for pursuing these issues with the appropriate authorities.

The present programme reflects the continuing frustration over issues that have remained pending despite repeated representations. It is a call for timely resolution, fair career progression and recognition of the legitimate concerns of the officers who form an important part of CBIC's executive workforce.

A prolonged wait for promotion (AISL & DPC)

One of the most pressing concerns is the prolonged delay in finalisation and release of the All India Seniority Lists (AISL) for 2014 and 2015, which has consequentially delayed the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) for promotion to the grade of Assistant Commissioner.

The delay has caused considerable uncertainty and frustration among eligible officers awaiting promotion. It has also affected career progression, with many Superintendents facing the prospect of retirement with only one promotion during their entire service career.

Timely consideration for promotion is not merely a procedural matter; it is closely connected with career progression, professional motivation and the morale of officers who have served the Department for decades. The Association has consistently pursued early finalisation of the seniority lists and convening of the DPC with the competent authorities.

Cadre restructuring: An urgent need

The delay in cadre restructuring is another major concern. The exercise, expected much earlier, has remained pending for years, prolonging stagnation and limiting promotional opportunities.

AIASCT has consistently advocated a comprehensive restructuring exercise that addresses the stagnation, promotional avenues, inter-cadre disparities, deficiencies in sanctioned strength and the need for a rational cadre structure. The Association expects the exercise to provide meaningful career progression and a balanced hierarchy, with adequate posts at the Assistant Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and higher levels.

Other long-pending demands

The agitation is not confined to the AISL and DPC issue. Several other matters continue to affect the service conditions, financial interests and welfare of officers, including:

• Uniform implementation of judicial decisions across Zones and clear guidelines to avoid inconsistent treatment of similarly placed officers.
• Regularisation of ad hoc promotions and grant of NFU to eligible officers.
• Resolution of the 01.01.1996 pay-fixation issue and early disbursal of eligible arrears, along with consequential benefits.
• Removal of promotional disparities affecting the Superintendent cadre.
• Timely settlement of medical reimbursements and other legitimate claims.
• Restoration of welfare measures, including the merit award for meritorious wards of CBIC officials.
• Improvement of infrastructure, official facilities and other service-related conditions.

These concerns, together with other issues recorded in the CEC resolutions, require sustained follow-up and time-bound attention from the concerned authorities.

From representations to collective action

AIASCT has consistently pursued these demands through representations, meetings and engagement with the administration. The Association believes that service-related issues should ordinarily be resolved through constructive dialogue and established institutional mechanisms.

However, when important matters remain unresolved despite repeated efforts, the Association has a responsibility to place the collective concerns of its members firmly before the authorities.

The CEC therefore adopted Resolution No. 3, providing for a phase-wise agitation if the AISL for 2014 and 2015 is not released and the DPC is not convened within a reasonable timeframe. The resolution also identifies individual representations by officers awaiting promotion as the first step.

In pursuance of this decision, the All India Body has communicated the commencement of the agitational programme to the Revenue Secretary and the Chairman, CBIC, and called upon the Units and members to participate in its implementation.

First phase: Individual representations on AISL and DPC

As the first phase, all officers awaiting promotion are requested to submit individual representations through proper channel to the competent authority, highlighting the prolonged delay and requesting:

1.    Early finalisation and release of the AISL for 2014 and 2015.

2.    Convening of the DPC for promotion to Assistant Commissioner at the earliest.

Members are encouraged to use the suggested draft circulated by the Association, adapting it to their individual service particulars and circumstances. A copy should also be shared with the Secretary General, AIASCT, and the General Secretary of the respective Unit, as advised in the Association's communication.

This initial step is intended to formally place the individual impact of the delay on record while demonstrating the widespread concern among eligible officers.

The role of Units and members

The success of the programme depends on coordinated action across the country. All AIASCT Units have been requested to forward the All India Body's communication to their respective Zonal Chief Commissioners and Principal Commissioners/Commissioners, informing them of the programme.

Units are also expected to assist eligible officers in submitting their representations, maintain details of submissions and report progress to the All India Body. Coordination with sister organisations, including AIACEIA and CIRSA, is also encouraged to secure solidarity and support for the legitimate demands of the Executive Cadre.

Members can further strengthen the Association's collective voice by actively participating in the programme and supporting its official communications.

Unity, discipline and constructive engagement

AIASCT remains committed to constructive engagement with the authorities. The agitational programme is intended to secure meaningful attention and early resolution of long-pending issues, not to close the door on dialogue.

The programme shall be implemented in phases, with the modalities for each phase being decided by the CEC and the Central Committee of AIASCT. Members and Units are expected to act in a coordinated, disciplined and responsible manner.

The concerns at stake extend beyond individual promotions. They concern fairness, morale, career progression and the effective functioning of the Executive Cadre. A united and sustained effort is therefore essential.

The message is clear: long-pending service-related demands require timely resolution. Through unity, collective action and constructive engagement, AIASCT will continue to pursue the legitimate interests of its members.

Unity is our strength. Collective action is our voice.

Fraternally Yours

 

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General

AIASCT

Update on All India Body’s Visit to Delhi – 08 & 09 October 2026

 Dear Members,

The All India Body visited Delhi on 08 and 09 October 2026 and held discussions with senior CBIC and DGHRD officials to pursue key issues concerning the cadre, promotions and service interests of our members. The important updates are as follows:

1. Meeting with the DG and Pr. ADG, DGHRD

(i) AISL and Consequential DPC

DGHRD officials informed that the Zonal Seniority Lists from Delhi and Vadodara Zones are still awaited. They assured that the DPC process would be initiated immediately upon receipt of the pending lists. The All India Body strongly emphasised the urgency of the matter and conveyed that continued delay in finalising the AISL and conducting the consequential DPC would leave the Association with no option but to launch an agitational programme.

(ii) Cadre Restructuring

DGHRD informed that the Cadre Restructuring exercise is progressing expeditiously. AIASCT’s earlier submissions and detailed proposal have been placed before the competent authorities, and the Working Group’s recommendations have also been taken into account. The full-member meeting on Cadre Restructuring has been held. The Board is making efforts to place the proposal before the Revenue Secretary, followed by the Hon’ble Finance Minister after incorporating any necessary modifications.

The All India Body strongly pressed for a substantial increase in posts in the grades of Assistant Commissioner (AC) and Deputy Commissioner (DC). DGHRD officials indicated that there would be a significant increase in AC posts.

(iii) Recruitment of DR Inspectors

Further, during the previous meeting, AIASCT had raised the issue of ensuring that the recruitment of Direct Inspectors would be continued at Pay Level 7. In this matter, the DGHRD has accepted this proposal and assured that Inspectors would be recruited at Pay level 7 also. 

All India Body Delegates and Representatives from Delhi Unit with DGHRD Officials

2. Meeting with Member (Administration)

 

(i) AISL and DPC

The All India Body discussed the long-pending AISL and consequential DPC issue with the Member (Administration). It was informed that the Department’s case would be presented by the Assistant Solicitor General before the Hon’ble High Court of Gujarat at Ahmedabad on 12 October 2026.

Pending the Court’s directions or permission, DGHRD has been instructed to remain prepared for further action. APARs and other requisite details are expected to be called for from all Zones by Monday of the coming week. The Member (Administration) sought the Association’s cooperation in ensuring timely submission of records.

All Unit representatives are therefore requested to coordinate with their respective local administrations and ensure that the required documents are furnished promptly.

(ii) Cadre Restructuring – Continued Monitoring

The Member (Administration) has been closely monitoring the progress of Cadre Restructuring and issuing necessary directions to expedite the exercise. During this visit, directions were reiterated to DGHRD officials to engage with the Association’s office-bearers. It was informed that the Board is working on a comprehensive proposal aimed at addressing career progression across cadres.

The All India Body acknowledges the improved transparency, constructive engagement and regular communication on Cadre Restructuring under the present Member (Administration). The regular interactions with DGHRD have helped facilitate discussions on the Association’s proposals and provide updates on progress.

3. Follow-up on Other Pending Issues

The All India Body also met other concerned authorities and pursued several long-pending matters, including:

•        Uniform implementation of court judgments.

•        Regularisation of ad hoc Superintendents.

•        Follow-up on the case before the Principal Bench concerning in-rem implementation of the 01.01.1996 pay parity issue.

•        Other important service-related issues affecting the cadre.

4. The All India Body also met with the newly elected office-bearers of the Delhi Unit of AIASCT to discuss organisational matters and key cadre-related issues. The Delhi Unit was requested to follow up with the Delhi Zone administration to ensure early forwarding of the Zonal Seniority List to DGHRD, thereby facilitating the finalisation of the AISL and the consequential DPC process.

The All India Body remains committed to pursuing these matters with determination. United efforts, sustained follow-up and collective determination remain key to securing our legitimate service interests.

 

With fraternal regards,

 

(Rabish Chandra)

Secretary General,

AIASCT

AIASCT Central Executive Committee Meeting at Bhopal on 12-13th September 2026

 Dear Members,

The All India Association of Superintendents of Central Tax (AIASCT) is scheduled to hold its Central Executive Committee (CEC) Meeting at Bhopal on 12th and 13th September 2026, hosted by the Bhopal Unit. The meeting will bring together representatives of Units from across the country to deliberate on important organisational and service-related matters concerning the cadre.

The CEC is an important forum of the Association for collective deliberation, review and decision-making. It provides an opportunity to take stock of the decisions and initiatives undertaken since the Coimbatore Convention of 12–13 March 2026, review important developments and determine the future course of action on matters affecting the cadre.

The effectiveness of the CEC is closely linked to the extent to which the concerns and aspirations of members from different formations reach the CEC through their Units. Members across the country are therefore requested to convey their genuine concerns, suggestions and pending service-related issues to the representatives (General Secretary/President) of their respective Units well in advance of the meeting.

The Unit representatives may, in turn, submit the points proposed for discussion at the CEC through the Association’s email, enabling their compilation and consideration for preparation of a detailed and structured agenda. Issues supported by relevant facts, documents or specific suggestions, wherever available, would help facilitate focused and meaningful deliberations.

The purpose is not merely to place issues before the CEC, but to collectively examine them, identify their wider implications and formulate appropriate strategies and a definite course of action. Issues requiring representation before the appropriate authorities, further follow-up or other organisational initiatives can accordingly be considered in a structured manner.

Members across the country are encouraged to use this opportunity to ensure that matters affecting them and their colleagues are brought to the notice of their Unit representatives. The active participation and inputs of members are an essential part of the CEC process and will help the Association better understand the issues on the ground and respond collectively.

We look forward to meeting the representatives of all the Units and CEC Members at Bhopal and to two days of constructive, purposeful and outcome-oriented deliberations. Let us make the Bhopal CEC a meaningful platform where concerns are heard, issues are deliberated upon and collective strategies are shaped for further action.

With warm regards,

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General
AIASCT

(NOTICE FOR CEC MEETING AT BHOPAL (12-13^th SEPTEMBER 2026)

Another Step Towards AISL Finalisation and DPC

AIASCT seeks the Hon'ble Finance Minister's intervention for the early finalisation of AISL, conduct of the long-awaited DPC, implementation of Cadre Restructuring and resolution of career stagnation and inter-cadre disparity.

Dear Esteemed Members,

The pursuit of justice for our cadre continues with renewed resolve. AIASCT has submitted a detailed representation to the Hon'ble Finance Minister seeking intervention to address the prolonged stagnation in the career progression of Superintendents of GST & Central Excise. The representation highlights both the immediate concerns affecting the cadre and the broader policy issues that require urgent attention.

A Cadre Burdened with Growing Responsibilities

The Superintendent cadre forms the backbone of CBIC's executive machinery. While our responsibilities have expanded significantly with GST, the increase in the taxpayer base and the growing complexity of tax administration, career progression has remained severely constrained. The prolonged stagnation in the cadre has led to many officers retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service with only one regular promotion, causing widespread disappointment and adversely impacting the morale of the cadre.

Cadre Restructuring Must Deliver Meaningful Reform

AIASCT has reiterated its support for the early implementation of Cadre Restructuring. The Association has requested that the restructuring comprehensively address career stagnation, inter-cadre disparity and equitable promotional opportunities. It has also urged that the proposal under consideration be shared with AIASCT before finalisation so that the representative stakeholder association may offer constructive suggestions.

Correcting Long-standing Disparity

The representation highlights the continuing disparity in career progression between the Central Excise feeder cadre and the Examiner and Preventive Officer streams. A striking example is that officers of the 2006 batch of the Examiner cadre have already been promoted as Assistant Commissioners, whereas Inspectors of Central Excise recruited in 1991 -1992 are still awaiting promotion to the same grade. The Association has sought corrective policy intervention to restore fairness, equity and equal opportunity.

Immediate Priority: AISL and DPC

The representation also draws attention to the delay in finalising the All India Seniority List (AISL) for the years 2014 and 2015, which has consequently delayed the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) for promotion to Assistant Commissioner. Despite 1,588 vacancies in the grades of Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner, the majority of which are promotional posts, eligible officers continue to await their rightful career progression. The Association has also highlighted that the DPC timeline prescribed by DoPT has already been exceeded.

Our Appeal

AIASCT has requested the Hon'ble Finance Minister to facilitate the early implementation of Cadre Restructuring in a manner that opens adequate promotional avenues for the Superintendent cadre, rectifies the long-standing inter-cadre disparity and addresses the prolonged stagnation and severely limited career progression faced by officers.

Recognising the urgency of the matter, the Association has sought immediate intervention for the finalisation and issuance of the All India Seniority List (AISL) and the early conduct of the long-awaited Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) for promotion to the grade of Assistant Commissioner.

Together We Shall Succeed

We remain hopeful that the intervention sought from the Hon'ble Finance Minister will help bring an early and meaningful resolution to these long-pending issues. However, should the issues continue to remain unresolved, the Association will be constrained to consider an appropriate future course of action in consultation with the members through their Unit representatives. Any such decision can succeed only with the active support, unity and participation of every member.

Together, we shall continue to strive for fairness, justice and meaningful career progression.

Fraternally Yours,

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General

 

Click here for representation submitted to the Hon'ble Finance Minister
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Three Months of Purposeful Progress: Together Towards a Stronger AIASCT

 Dear Esteemed Members of AIASCT,

Warm greetings to all!

With the completion of three months of the tenure of the present Central Committee on 13th June 2026, the progress made during this initial period was reviewed in an online meeting of the Central Executive Committee (CEC) convened on 11th July 2026. The Chief Office Bearers of Units from Units across the country and members of the Central Committee (All India Body) participated in the meeting and deliberated on the action taken by the Central Committee on various organisational and service matters. They offered valuable suggestions and constructive guidance, besides discussing the future course of action and strategies for effectively pursuing the issues affecting the cadre. The deliberations reflected the democratic functioning of our Association and reaffirmed the collective resolve of the leadership to work in close coordination for safeguarding the legitimate interests of our members.

As we complete the first three months of our tenure, I consider it appropriate to share with our members a brief account of the important decisions taken, activities undertaken and significant developments concerning the Association during this period. While three months is a relatively short period in the life of any organisation, the Central Committee has endeavoured to translate the mandate received at the XVI All India Convention into meaningful action through collective leadership, constructive engagement with the administration and continuous interaction with our members.

During this period, Team AIASCT actively engaged with the Chairman, CBIC, Member (Administration), DGHRD and other senior officers of the Department on issues of critical importance to our cadre. The long-pending All India Seniority List (AISL) and the consequential Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) have remained our foremost priority. Through successive meetings, detailed representations and continuous follow-up, the Association consistently impressed upon the authorities the urgency of resolving these issues without further delay. Recognising the gravity of the situation, the Association also sought the intervention of the Revenue Secretary to facilitate expeditious finalisation of the AISL and early conduct of the DPC.

Cadre Restructuring has been another major area of focus. The Association constituted its own Cadre Restructuring Committee, invited suggestions from members across the country, submitted its preliminary inputs to DGHRD and sought greater transparency and meaningful stakeholder consultation in the restructuring process. Our endeavour has been to ensure that the restructuring exercise not only addresses the functional requirements of the Department but also provides meaningful career progression by tackling the long-standing issue of stagnation in the executive cadre.

The Association also effectively represented the concerns of the cadre before the 8th Central Pay Commission, placing emphasis on pay parity, NFUG, MACP and other long-pending service issues. We remain hopeful that the concerns placed before the Commission will receive due consideration.

On the organisational front, the Central Committee has worked towards strengthening AIASCT through regular meetings of the All India Body, improved communication with members, greater transparency in functioning and enhanced coordination among Units. A significant organisational achievement during this period has been the successful progress towards the formation of the Federation of Associations of Central Tax Officers (FACTO), which is expected to provide a stronger collective platform for pursuing issues of common concern affecting executive officers. The Central Committee also successfully discharged important organisational responsibilities, including the conduct of the Mumbai Unit elections, thereby further strengthening the democratic traditions of the Association.

The first three months have therefore been a period of laying a strong organisational foundation while simultaneously pursuing the most pressing issues affecting our cadre. Although several of these issues are yet to reach their logical conclusion, the Central Committee has ensured that they remain firmly on the agenda of the Government and the Board through sustained engagement, well-reasoned representations and continuous follow-up.

Dear Members, we are fully conscious that the road ahead is both challenging and crucial. Finalisation of the AISL, early conduct of the DPC, meaningful Cadre Restructuring and favourable recommendations of the 8th Central Pay Commission continue to remain our foremost priorities. We remain committed to pursuing these issues with perseverance and determination. At the same time, we firmly believe that the success of our collective efforts depends not only upon the initiatives of the Central Committee but equally upon the unity, confidence and active participation of every member of our Association.

As we move forward, let us continue to remain united in purpose, constructive in our approach and resolute in our commitment to securing justice, dignity and better career progression for every Superintendent of Central Tax. Together, we can build a stronger organisation capable of effectively representing the aspirations of our cadre.

On behalf of the entire Central Committee, I once again express my heartfelt gratitude to all our members, Unit Office Bearers, Central Executive Committee Members and the All India Body for their continued trust, valuable guidance, cooperation and unwavering support.

Let us move forward together, with unity in purpose, strength in organisation and confidence in our collective future.

With fraternal regards,

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General
All India Association of Superintendents of Central Tax (AIASCT)

Click Here to View REPORT OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL
(On the Decisions Taken, Activities Undertaken and Important Developments During the First Three Months of the Present Central Committee)

The Wait Must End!

 AIASCT seeks the Revenue Secretary's intervention for AISL & DPC.

Dear Esteemed Members,

Warm Greeting!

The pursuit of justice for our cadre continues with renewed resolve. As part of our sustained efforts to address the long-standing issues of All India Seniority List (AISL) and conduct of the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) for promotion from Superintendent to Assistant Commissioner, the Association has now taken the matter to the highest level in the Department by submitting a detailed representation to the Revenue Secretary seeking his intervention for an early resolution.

A Cadre Grappling with Unprecedented Stagnation

The Superintendent cadre is today witnessing one of the most prolonged phases of career stagnation in its history. A large number of officers are retiring after rendering more than 30 years of dedicated service with only one regular promotion in their entire career. This is not merely a question of delayed promotions—it is a matter of fairness, equity and recognition of decades of dedicated service.

The continued non-finalization of the AISL has consequently delayed the DPC for promotion to the grade of Assistant Commissioner, depriving eligible officers of their legitimate career progression. Every passing month sees more officers retire without receiving the promotion they rightfully deserve, resulting in an irreversible loss that no subsequent financial benefit can fully compensate.

1,534 Vacancies Demand Immediate Attention

One of the key concerns highlighted in the representation is that, as per the Disposition List (SS-WS) as on 01.06.2026, there are 1,534 vacancies in the grades of Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner, the majority of which are promotional posts. Despite the availability of such a substantial number of vacancies, eligible officers continue to await consideration for promotion due to the pendency of the All India Seniority List (AISL). 

The Association has further pointed out that, as per the timelines prescribed by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) in O.M. No. 22011/4/2013-Estt.(D) dated 08.05.2017, the DPC for the vacancy year 2026 ought to have been completed by October 2025 itself. By this time, the process for the DPC for the vacancy year 2027 should ordinarily have been at an advanced stage. 

The continued delay has only prolonged stagnation in the Superintendent cadre and deprived eligible officers of their legitimate career progression.

AIASCT Strongly Supports Early Cadre Restructuring

The Association has once again reiterated its unequivocal support for the early implementation of Cadre Restructuring. Cadre Restructuring remains an essential long-term measure to address stagnation, strengthen the organisational framework and create better career opportunities for the cadre.

At the same time, the Association has submitted that when a substantial number of sanctioned promotional posts are already lying vacant, the assurance of creating additional Assistant Commissioner posts through Cadre Restructuring, without filling the existing vacancies, may not adequately instil confidence in the cadre regarding the intended improvement in career progression.

A Long-standing Injustice to the Central Excise Feeder Cadre

The representation also highlights the continuing injustice faced by officers of the Central Excise feeder cadre. Although Superintendents of Central Excise, Examiners and Preventive Officers entered the Department through the same recruitment examination, career progression has not been equitable.

In many instances, officers belonging to the Examiner and Preventive Officer streams have secured promotions to higher grades well before their seniors in the Central Excise feeder cadre. This disparity, particularly affecting officers serving in the most stagnating Central Excise Zones, has persisted for decades and deserves urgent corrective attention in the interest of fairness and equal opportunity.

Our Appeal to the Revenue Secretary

The representation submitted to the Revenue Secretary concludes with a request for his kind intervention to ensure an early resolution of this long-pending issue. AIASCT has requested that suitable directions be issued for the expeditious finalization of the All India Seniority List (AISL) of Superintendents of GST & Central Excise for the years 2014 and 2015; that the concerned authorities complete all remaining formalities within a definite timeframe, and;  that the long-awaited Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) for promotion to the grade of Assistant Commissioner is convened at the earliest, thereby providing the long-overdue career progression to eligible officers.

Our Pursuit Continues

The issue of AISL and DPC has remained one of the Association's foremost priorities. The present Central Committee( All India Body) has continued this sustained effort through representations to the Chairman, CBIC, discussions during the Official Consultative Meeting, meetings with senior officers in New Delhi and, most recently, by submitting a detailed representation to the Revenue Secretary seeking his intervention for an early resolution.

The Association remains steadfast in its commitment to pursue this matter until a meaningful outcome is achieved.

Together Towards Justice and Career Progression

The strength of AIASCT lies in the unity and unwavering support of its members. Every representation, every meeting and every initiative is driven by a single objective—to secure fair, timely and equitable career progression for every Superintendent. We sincerely hope that the intervention sought from the Revenue Secretary will lead to the early finalization of the AISL and the conduct of the long-awaited DPC, bringing long-overdue relief to thousands of deserving officers across the country. However, if the issue continues to remain unresolved, the Association will be constrained to consider an appropriate future course of action in consultation with the members through our unit representatives. Any decision, including appropriate collective action, can succeed only with the active support and solidarity of every member of the Association. 

Together, we shall continue to strive for fairness, justice and timely career progression.

With confidence in our collective strength,

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General

(Click here for letter submitted to the Revenue Secretary)

A Cadre at a Turning Point: AIASCT Charts the Course Ahead

Dear Members,

Warm Greetings of the Day!

The All India Association of Superintendents of Central Tax (AIASCT) held its monthly meeting of the Central Committee (All India Body) on 31 May 2026, bringing together office bearers from across the country to deliberate on some of the most pressing issues affecting the cadre. The meeting served as a platform to review developments across Zones, assess the status of the long-pending All India Seniority List (AISL), discuss the ongoing Cadre Restructuring Exercise, and advance the process of establishing a Federation for coordinated representation.

Growing Concern Over Delay in AISL

The issue that dominated the discussions was the continued delay in the finalisation of the All India Seniority List (AISL). Representatives from different Zones highlighted the widespread frustration among members whose promotions and career progression have been adversely affected by the prolonged uncertainty.

The All India Body (AIB) observed that the delay in AISL has directly impacted the conduct of Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) for promotion from Group ‘B’ to Group ‘A’, leaving many officers stagnating in service despite long years of dedication. Members expressed concern that several officers are retiring without receiving the promotional opportunities they rightfully deserve.

While reaffirming its commitment to pursuing the issue through all available administrative channels, the AIB also acknowledged the growing impatience among members. It was agreed that, if meaningful progress is not achieved, the Association may have to consider phased agitational programmes. Importantly, the emphasis was placed on strengthening organisational preparedness and building a culture of collective participation to effectively pursue the cadre’s legitimate demands.

Cadre Restructuring: A Defining Opportunity

The ongoing Cadre Restructuring Exercise was another major area of discussion. AIB stressed that this exercise presents a crucial opportunity to address long-standing structural issues affecting the executive cadre.

Members were informed that the ‘AIASCT Cadre Restructuring Committee’ is actively examining various aspects of the proposed restructuring and holding regular consultations. The All India Body resolved that future submissions to the Board and DGHRD would be based on the recommendations of this Committee, ensuring that the Association's position remains comprehensive, evidence-based and reflective of the aspirations of the cadre.

The message was clear: cadre restructuring must not be viewed merely as an administrative exercise, but as a chance to secure a stronger and more equitable career framework for future generations of officers.

Zonal Issues Reflect Common Challenges

Reports from the Zones revealed a common thread of concerns across the country.

In the South Zone, issues relating to deputation policies, implementation of e-HRMS, settlement of employee claims, transfer policy deviations and protection of office bearers were highlighted. Concerns were also raised about inconsistent practices in forwarding deputation applications and the need for a transparent and uniform policy applicable across all formations.

Representatives from the West Zone drew attention to regularisation issues, AGT-related concerns and the urgent need for finalisation of AISL. The West Zone representatives also apprised the Committee that at the recent Zonal JCM meeting held in Mumbai, the Unit office bearers effectively highlighted several key service matters before the administration, including NFU, seniority, transfer policy reforms and workload rationalisation, seeking appropriate consideration and resolution of these issues.

The East Zone highlighted growing anxiety among members over AISL delays and emphasised the importance of strengthening organisational visibility and engagement with members.

These discussions underscored the fact that while regional issues may differ in form, the fundamental concerns of career progression, transparency, fairness and cadre welfare remain common across the country.

Federation: Towards a Stronger Collective Voice

A significant development discussed during the meeting was the progress towards finalisation of the Federation Constitution.

The Committee recognised that many service-related matters transcend individual cadres and require coordinated representation before the Government and the Board. It was therefore agreed that the Federation Constitution should be finalised at the earliest so that common issues affecting executive officers can be pursued under a unified platform, while preserving the autonomy of individual Associations on cadre-specific matters.

Organisational Strengthening and Member Engagement

The meeting also reviewed organisational initiatives undertaken during the previous month, including interventions in Mumbai Unit affairs, submission of the memorandum before the 8th Central Pay Commission, follow-up correspondence on AISL and OCM, and social media outreach initiatives.

Recognising that organisational strength ultimately depends on member participation, the Committee emphasised the importance of communication, awareness campaigns and greater engagement through meetings, social media and messaging platforms. Office bearers were encouraged to identify active members in key formations and build stronger feedback mechanisms across the country.

The Working President urged members to remain focused on organisational objectives despite setbacks or discouraging developments, stressing that sustained effort, unity and commitment are essential for achieving long-term goals.

Concerns were also raised regarding the victimization of office bearers by the administration. It was suggested that where such issues are not resolved at the zonal level, they should be taken up by the All India Body with the Board. The President expressed serious concern over the matter and assured that the Association would extend full support and take up any instance of victimization of office bearers with the Board whenever required.

The Road Ahead

The meeting concluded with a comprehensive set of action points covering AISL, deputation policy, transfer policy reforms, cadre restructuring, federation formation, protection of office bearers, communication strategies and membership mobilisation

The deliberations reflected both the challenges confronting the cadre and the determination of the Association to address them. As AIASCT moves forward, three priorities stand out clearly: securing early resolution of AISL, ensuring meaningful cadre restructuring, and building a stronger, more united organisational framework capable of effectively representing the interests of Superintendents of Central Tax.

The coming months are likely to be critical. Success will depend not only on sustained engagement with the administration but also on the active participation, awareness and solidarity of members across the country.

The message emerging from the meeting was unequivocal: the time has come for greater unity, stronger organisation and collective resolve in pursuit of the cadre's legitimate aspirations.

 With Fraternal Regards!

 

 

Rabish Chandra
Secretary General
AIASCT

 [Click here for Minutes of Meeting]