Haryana house OKs bill easing Group D promotions, Cong flags code violation

Chandigarh: The Haryana assembly on Monday passed the Haryana Clerical Services (Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Bill, 2026, aimed at simplifying promotions for Group D employees, even as the opposition flagged the move as a violation of the model code of conduct (MCC).The municipal corporations of Sonipat, Panchkula and Ambala are set to vote in May. Leader of opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda said bringing the bill during the poll code was "improper" and alleged procedural lapses. "Since the model code is in force, introducing such a bill amounts to a violation," he said.The bill, presented by chief minister Nayab Singh Saini, was passed by the house during a special session.Saini said the legislation would make promotions for Group D employees simpler, faster and more transparent. He said the promotion quota to clerical posts has been increased from 20% to 30%, enabling more employees to move up.He added that the 2018 common cadre system had already expanded opportunities, and the new changes — including a higher quota and reduced service requirements — would further speed up promotions, which earlier could take 10–15 years.