Extraordinary Leave (EOL) is a special kind of leave granted to Haryana Government employees in certain circumstances when no other leave is available or applicable. It allows employees to remain absent from duty for genuine reasons without receiving leave salary (except house rent allowance for a limited period). The provisions are clearly defined in the Haryana Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 2016 under Chapter IX.
What is Extraordinary Leave (EOL)?
Extraordinary Leave means a period of authorized absence granted to a government employee when:
- No other type of leave (like Earned Leave or Half Pay Leave) is available in their account, OR
- The employee applies in writing for EOL even when other kinds of leave are still available.
During this period, the employee does not receive leave salary, except for House Rent Allowance (HRA) for the first 180 days if availed continuously at one time.
When Can EOL Be Granted?
According to Rule 40(1) of the Haryana Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 2016, EOL may be granted in the following situations:
- When no earned leave or half pay leave is at credit of the employee.
- When an employee requests in writing for EOL, even if other leave is available.
- When an employee overstays their leave and the period is converted into EOL by the competent authority.
- For purposes like medical treatment, higher studies, or special personal situations approved by the department.
Duration and Limits of Extraordinary Leave
As per Rule 41, EOL may be sanctioned up to the following limits on any one occasion:
| Type of EOL | Maximum Duration | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| General Extraordinary Leave | Up to 6 months | When other leave is not available. |
| EOL on Medical Certificate | Up to 24 months | Must be supported by a medical certificate from a competent medical authority. |
| EOL for Higher Studies / Training | Up to 24 months | Must be certified by the Government as in public interest; employee should have completed at least 3 years of continuous service. |
Conversion and Retrospective Adjustment
Under Rule 40(2), the authority competent to grant leave can convert absence without leave or wilful absence into EOL, but not into any other kind of leave. Similarly, previously granted EOL can be converted into Earned Leave or Half Pay Leave if those leaves were available at that time.
Important Notes:
- This conversion is a discretionary power — employees cannot claim it as a right.
- EOL granted on medical certificate can later be converted into Leave Not Due at the discretion of the authority.
Effect of Extraordinary Leave on Service and Benefits
- During EOL, no leave salary is admissible except for HRA for the first 180 days.
- The EOL period is not counted as qualifying service for pension, increment, or promotion unless specifically allowed by the competent authority.
- EOL cannot be claimed as a matter of right — it is entirely based on administrative discretion.
Authority to Sanction Extraordinary Leave
The same authority that is competent to grant other kinds of leave may sanction EOL. However, for longer durations or special cases (e.g. for studies or abroad stays), prior approval of the Finance Department or Administrative Department is generally required.
Key Takeaways
- Extraordinary Leave (EOL) is unpaid leave granted in special cases.
- Maximum limit: 6 to 24 months depending on reason.
- HRA is admissible for the first 180 days.
- EOL can affect seniority, pension, and service benefits if prolonged.
FAQs on Extraordinary Leave (EOL) – Haryana Govt Employees
1. Is salary paid during Extraordinary Leave?
No, salary is not paid during EOL. Only House Rent Allowance (HRA) for up to 180 days is admissible.
2. Can EOL be combined with other types of leave?
Yes, it can be combined with other leave types like Earned Leave or Half Pay Leave if approved by the competent authority.
3. Does EOL affect pension and service benefits?
Yes, EOL is generally treated as non-qualifying service unless specifically ordered otherwise.
4. Can an employee request EOL even when other leave is available?
Yes, but the employee must apply in writing, and approval is at the department’s discretion.
5. What happens if an employee overstays their leave?
The overstay period may be treated as EOL if approved by the competent authority; otherwise, it is treated as unauthorised absence.
Conclusion
The Extraordinary Leave (EOL) provisions under the Haryana Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 2016 ensure that government employees can take necessary time off for health, family, or educational reasons without losing their service connection—provided the leave is sanctioned properly. However, as it is unpaid and non-qualifying for pension or seniority, it should be used only when absolutely necessary.
For complete reference, visit the official Finance Department Haryana website: www.finhry.gov.in