The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India, has issued a fresh Office Memorandum dated 26 November 2025 regarding the Revised Schedule of Engaging Authority, Disciplinary Authority, and Appellate Authority (SEDA) for Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS). This revision has been made under Rule 31 of the GDS (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020 and comes into effect immediately.
This update is important for all categories of Gramin Dak Sevaks as it clearly defines who has the power to engage GDS, impose penalties, and decide appeals.
Background of Revised SEDA for GDS 2025
Earlier, the Schedule of Engaging Authority, Disciplinary Authority, and Appellate Authority was issued and revised vide Directorate OM dated 28 July 2020. Based on administrative requirements and operational clarity, the Department has now decided to further revise the SEDA structure for all GDS categories.
The revised SEDA aims to ensure:
- Clear delegation of disciplinary powers
- Faster decision-making
- Better administrative accountability
Effective Date and Applicability
- The Revised SEDA for GDS 2025 is applicable with immediate effect from 26.11.2025.
- It applies to all categories of Gramin Dak Sevaks working under the Department of Posts.
Important Clarification on Ongoing Disciplinary Cases
The Office Memorandum provides clear guidance regarding pending and past cases:
- Disciplinary proceedings already initiated will continue as per existing procedures.
- However, penalties (if any) will now be imposed by the Disciplinary Authority as per the Revised SEDA.
- Appeals against punishments already awarded till date will continue to be decided by the Appellate Authorities under the pre-revised SEDA.
This ensures that no case is adversely affected due to the transition.
Revised SEDA for GDS: Authority Structure Explained
1. GDS Engaged in Divisions/Units Headed by PS Group ‘B’ to STS (Below JAG)
Engaging Authority
- Head of Division / Unit / Independent Unit
- Includes:
- Senior Postmaster / Deputy Chief Postmaster / Superintendent (Sorting)
- Postmaster not below HSG-I (Postal Side) for their own office
- Sub-Divisional Head or equivalent officers in RMS, PSD, MMS, etc.
Disciplinary Authority
- Head of Division / Unit / Independent Unit
Penalties
- All penalties as prescribed under Rule 9 of GDS (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020
Appellate Authority
- PMG (where DPS Post is not available)
- DPS Concerned / DPS Region
2. GDS Engaged in Divisions/Units Headed by JAG Level and Above
Engaging Authority
- Deputy Director (equivalent to JTS/STS)
- Assistant Director level officer (equivalent to PS Group ‘B’)
Disciplinary Authority
- Deputy Director / Assistant Director (as above)
Penalties
- All penalties under Rule 9 of GDS Rules, 2020
Appellate Authority
- Head of Division / Unit / Independent Unit
Why the Revised SEDA for GDS 2025 Matters
The revised authority structure brings:
- Greater clarity in disciplinary control
- Uniform application of rules across postal units
- Improved grievance redressal mechanism for GDS
- Streamlined administrative supervision
For Gramin Dak Sevaks, understanding the Revised SEDA is essential to know where accountability lies and which authority to approach in disciplinary and appeal matters.
Conclusion
The Revised SEDA for GDS 2025 reflects the Department of Posts’ commitment to transparent and efficient administration. All postal authorities and Gramin Dak Sevaks are advised to familiarize themselves with the revised structure to ensure smooth implementation and compliance with the GDS (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020.