Divisional secretaries threaten to withdraw from field duties over fuel allowance issue

The Association of Divisional Secretaries and Assistant Divisional Secretaries has announced that its members may withdraw from field duties and supervisory work if government institutions do not provide fuel allowances for official travel.

In a statement, the association warned that officers would be compelled to step away from field and monitoring activities unless a fuel allowance is provided by the respective institutions for official duties.

The association said Treasury circulars issued by the Treasury Secretary have limited fuel allowances for government officials based on fuel prices as of March 1, 2026, leaving divisional secretaries facing serious difficulties.

It added that despite informing the President and relevant authorities in writing in April, no positive response or relief has been received so far.

The statement further noted that rising fuel prices have reduced the amount of official travel that can be covered under the existing allowance, forcing officers to use personal funds to carry out official duties.

The association also highlighted that officers are required to attend a large number of coordination and progress review meetings at district and divisional levels, in addition to routine field duties.

Accordingly, the association said it has unanimously decided not to attend district or divisional meetings outside their divisions, as well as all politically convened meetings, until a satisfactory solution is provided.

It also added that members will not participate in any meetings held on Mondays (public day), effective from tomorrow onward.