Department of Posts Clarifies Dies-Non, EOL and Unauthorized Absence Rules for PA/SA LDCE 2026
Department of Posts Clarifies Treatment of Dies-Non, EOL and Unauthorized Absence for PA/SA LDCE 2026
The Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, has issued a clarification dated 22 September 2026 regarding the treatment of Dies-non, Extraordinary Leave (EOL) and unauthorized absence and the applicability of the senior-junior clause for determining eligibility for the Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE) for promotion to the PA/SA Cadre for the year 2026.
Download PA/SA LDCE 2026: Senior-Junior Clause Declared Not Applicable in PDF
The clarification was issued by the Personnel Division, Dak Bhawan, New Delhi, following references received from various Postal Circles. The matter was examined in consultation with the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT).
Key Clarifications
1. Eligibility to be determined individually
The eligibility of each official will be determined independently with reference to the prescribed conditions under the relevant Recruitment Rules, as applicable on the crucial date.
2. Treatment of Dies-non and Unauthorized Absence
Dies-non and unauthorized absence will not count as qualifying/regular service, unless the period is regularized by the Competent Authority through a speaking order.
In cases of Extraordinary Leave (EOL), the qualifying/regular service will be determined in accordance with the applicable leave rules and instructions. For unauthorized absence, the provisions of FR 17-A are also required to be examined, wherever applicable.
3. Senior-Junior Clause
The Department has specifically clarified that the senior-junior clause is not applicable for the aforesaid LDCE for promotion to the PA/SA Cadre.
Applicability
The clarification is issued for further necessary action by the concerned authorities and has the approval of the Competent Authority. The letter is signed by Vinod Kumar, Assistant Director General (SPN), Department of Posts.
Conclusion
The clarification provides a clear framework for assessing eligibility for the PA/SA LDCE 2026, particularly in cases involving Dies-non, EOL and unauthorized absence. It also settles the question of applying the senior-junior clause for this particular LDCE by stating that the clause is not applicable.