GUWAHATI: Assam's Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) lack an approved staffing pattern, leading to inconsistencies in staff strength across different units.
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According to the report recently released by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) for the period 2021-22 to 2022-23, this variation in workforce, depending on the size and financial capacity of each ULB, has affected their efficiency in managing funds and implementing government schemes.
The report also emphasised that appropriate staffing is crucial for effective financial management, especially given the increased workload of ULBs under various programmes and projects. Without a uniform staffing structure, ULBs continue to face administrative challenges in ensuring proper accounting and utilisation of funds.
The 6th Assam State Finance Commission (ASFC) had earlier recommended urgent adoption of a standard staffing pattern for ULBs and the finalisation of service rules for their employees. It also suggested the establishment of a statutory autonomous body, the Assam Municipal Service Commission, to oversee staffing regulations and recruit technically qualified personnel for municipal services.
In response, the Assam government had stated in October 2023 that a one-man commission had been set up in March to examine the staffing structure of all municipal boards in the state.
