In reply to a Lok Sabha question on the implementation of “Own Merit” promotions for SC/ST officials in the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), the Ministry of Finance stated that representations on promotion-related issues, including promotions on own merit, are received from time to time. These representations are examined in accordance with the existing instructions issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoP&T), and such examination is a continuous administrative process. The Government did not confirm figures regarding the alleged existence of more than 10,000 backlog vacancies arising from non-implementation of the policy. It further clarified that the broader issue of reservation in promotion is presently sub judice before the Supreme Court of India in Jarnail Singh v. Lachhmi Narain Gupta and connected matters, which are awaiting final adjudication. In view of the pending judicial proceedings, the Government indicated that promotion-related matters continue to be handled as per prevailing rules and instructions.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 1459

TO BE ANSWERED ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2026 / Magha 20, 1947 (Saka)

“OWN MERIT” PROMOTIONS OF SC/ST OFFICIALS IN CBDT

1459. Shri Raja A:

Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:

(a) whether any complaints have been received by the Government with regard to non-implementation of the concept of “Own Merit” promotions on seniority to SC/ST officials as laid down by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Office Memorandums, in the office of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and its 18 cadre controlling authorities;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the response of Government thereto;

(c) whether it is a fact that more than 10,000 backlog vacancies exist due to non-implementation of “Own Merit” promotions in the Department; and

(d) if so, the details thereof along with the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to implement the policy and to clear all backlog vacancies on timebound basis?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
(SHRI PANKAJ CHAUDHARY)

(a) to (d): Representations are received in CBDT, Department of Revenue, on the issue of promotion, including the issue related to promotion on “own merit”, from time to time.

These representations are examined as per the extant instructions issued by Department of Personnel and Training (DoP&T) in the matter, which is a continuous process

The issue of reservation in promotion is also pending before the Supreme Court of India in the case of Jarnail Singh and Ors. Versus Lachhmi Narain Gupta and Ors. and other connected matters, for final adjudication.

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