Thiruvananthapuram: The State Government is all set to make amendments to the laws regarding compassionate employment for dependents of the government servants who pass away during their service. These amendments will offer either employment or compensation to the dependents.

The recommendations in this regard are presently under the consideration of the Cabinet. The order pertaining to the terms and conditions for compensation will be issued only after getting Cabinet nod for the amendments. 

Only those with the stipulated income limits (presently Rs 8 lakh) are eligible to apply for compensation. Relatives must obtain an income certificate from the Revenue Department within one year of the government servant's demise. 

The compassionate employment can be considered for a maximum of five posts. Dependents must accept the position offered to them and cannot request a change later. The application should be submitted within three years of the death of the government employee and if the dependent is a minor at the time of death of the government servant, the person should apply within three years after becoming major for the employment. In case of failure to apply within the stipulated time limit, the dependent will be eligible only for compensation. Also, the qualification at the time of application will only be considered. 

The post will be decided through the unified system of the Public Government Department. Each post will have a seniority list, and if the dependent gets selected from one list, his or her name will be dropped from other lists.

Recommendations 

If the dependent is below 13 years of age, he or she will not be eligible for employment. Instead, the person will be provided compensation. Dependents aged 13 years and above can apply for compassionate employment. Dependents not opting for compassionate employment can apply for compensation.