L-G Vinai Kumar Saxena has ordered the removal of restrictions that barred government employees—despite being graduates—from applying for higher, graduate-level posts if they were appointed to positions requiring lower qualifications.

The decision, which comes into immediate effect, marks a significant administrative reform aimed at ensuring fair career progression for youth in Ladakh.

Earlier, candidates with higher qualifications who secured jobs meant for 10th or 12th pass applicants were required to submit affidavits declaring they did not possess higher qualifications. As a result, they were later deemed ineligible for recruitment to graduate-level posts, effectively limiting their career advancement.
Terming the provision “unjustified” and “restrictive,” the Lieutenant Governor said such rules were contrary to the fundamental right to seek appropriate employment.

The move is expected to benefit thousands of employees working in lower-qualification roles such as Orderly and Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), who were previously barred from competing for higher posts. The restriction had also discouraged many qualified youth from applying for such jobs due to concerns over limited career growth.

The decision follows multiple representations from affected candidates who had been declared ineligible for higher posts due to earlier affidavits.
After a detailed review, the Lieutenant Governor noted that such provisions disproportionately impacted youth in Ladakh, where employment opportunities are limited and government jobs remain a key aspiration.

“Accordingly, the provision contained in Para 3 of the Office Memorandum dated 25.03.2026 is hereby set aside on the grounds of being unjustified and restrictive. All candidates already in government service, including those appointed based on such declarations or undertakings, shall be allowed to appear in future graduate-level examinations and apply for higher posts, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed eligibility conditions. This relaxation shall apply uniformly to all existing employees and will not be denied on the basis of earlier affidavits regarding non-possession of higher qualifications. This order shall come into effect immediately,” ordered Vinai Kumar Saxena.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the decision would have far-reaching implications and significantly safeguard the interests of Ladakhi youth. “It is the responsibility of the Administration to ensure equal opportunities for all sections of society, irrespective of educational qualifications. The UT Administration remains committed to responsive and inclusive governance, and will take proactive steps to address genuine public concerns, ensuring that no eligible candidate is disadvantaged by such unjustified and restrictive provisions,” he said.