Rajya Sabha MP and CPI(M) Deputy Leader Dr. John Brittas has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, seeking urgent intervention regarding the denial of leave for officers of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.

In his letter, Brittas expressed “grave concern” over orders issued by CBIC and the Thiruvananthapuram Zone Commissionerate, which mandate CGST and Customs officers to remain on duty on March 29th, 30th, and 31st. The Thiruvananthapuram Zone directive explicitly states that “Supervisory Officers may not grant any leave or permission to the officers on these days.”

Calling the decision “highly regrettable” and “deeply unjustified,” Brittas highlighted that Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most sacred festivals for Muslims, is expected to fall on either March 30 or 31. The directive, he argued, violates the fundamental right to religious freedom enshrined in the Indian Constitution and disregards the principles of fairness and inclusivity in civil services.

The MP also pointed out that the move contradicts the government’s notified holiday list and norms set by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs. “Compelling employees to work on a designated national holiday without due accommodation violates service regulations and undermines their fundamental rights,” he wrote.

Dr. Brittas urged the Finance Minister to take immediate corrective action by revoking the directive and ensuring that Muslim officers are allowed to observe Eid-ul-Fitr.

The letter has sparked discussions on religious accommodations in government institutions, with many advocating for a more inclusive approach to public service holidays. The Finance Ministry has yet to respond to the appeal.

Read More: CBIC Declares CGST Field Formations to Remain Open on March 29-31, 2025