DoP Revises Disciplinary and Appellate Authorities for All GDS Categories: New Rules Come Into Effect

DoP Revises Disciplinary and Appellate Authorities for All GDS Categories: New Rules Come Into Effect

Department of Posts has issued an O.M. for Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) by revising the Schedule of Engaging Authority, Disciplinary Authority, and Appellate Authority (SEDA) under Rule 31 of the GDS (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020.

The new order has been released through an Office Memorandum No. 17-31/2016-GDS (Pt) dated 26 November 2025 and comes into effect immediately.

Earlier, the SEDA framework was last notified on 28 July 2020. After reviewing administrative needs, the Department has now approved further revisions in responsibilities for engagement, disciplinary actions, and appeals across all categories of GDS — including BPMs, ABPMs, and Dak Sevaks.

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According to the order, disciplinary cases that are already in process will continue as per normal procedure. However, penalties awarded henceforth must follow the revised SEDA, and appeals for punishments already imposed will be examined as per the previous SEDA structure.

The revised setup clarifies which authority will handle engagement and disciplinary matters based on the level and posting of the GDS. Divisional Heads, Sub-Divisional Officers, Postmasters (HSG-I level and above), Dy. Directors and DPS/PMG will now have reorganized roles depending on the situation.

This update is expected to smooth disciplinary procedures and ensure faster decision-making in the GDS cadre, which forms the backbone of last-mile postal delivery across India.

The Office Memorandum is issued with the approval of the competent authority and signed by Shri Gurvinder Singh, Assistant Director General (GDS).

The revised schedule of authorities is attached as Annexure-I with the official order and will be accessible on the India Post website for reference by postal offices and GDS personnel nationwide.