Online transfers: Haryana Govt issues clarification on ‘notional vacancy’
Different departments have been interpreting the term differently
The state government has issued a clarification to ensure uniform interpretation of the terms “notional vacancy” and “notional category” under the Model Online Transfer Policy, 2025, ahead of the state’s first online transfer drive.
According to a letter addressed to all Administrative Secretaries and HoDs by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, it was observed that different departments were adopting divergent interpretations of these terms. This had led to inconsistencies in implementation and increased the risk of litigation. The matter was examined in the light of legal principles and administrative practicality, following which a uniform decision has been taken.
As per the clarification, no post will be treated as a notional vacancy or placed under a notional category during the first online transfer drive in respect of vacancies that existed prior to the notification of the transfer policy. Vacancies arising between the date of notification of the policy and the qualifying date will be treated as notional vacancies or categories only as a one-time measure.
Further, vacancies arising after the qualifying date will be considered under the notional vacancy or category only in subsequent transfer drives, and not in the ongoing exercise.
