CHENNAI: Ahead of the Pongal holidays, a notice issued by the Finance Department has created panic among Secretariat staff, as it calls upon government employees to attend office even on public holidays.

In his letter, Joint Secretary to the Finance Department Pratik Tayal stated that the State Interim Budget for the financial year 2026–27 will be presented in February.

Inviting staff involved in budget-related work, he said that all staff of core budget sections and all nodal officers of departments are required to attend office regularly on all working days and holidays, including Saturdays and Sundays.

Mentioning the working hours, he said that all staff should report to the office on time and remain until file clearances are granted by the Finance Department.

The Joint Secretary further stated that any documents required by the Additional Chief Secretary or the Joint Secretary to Government (Budget) must be furnished by the staff of the budget sections.

The letter has triggered panic among Secretariat staff. "Ahead of the Pongal festival, the Finance Department has sent this letter to all departments. This is not acceptable," staff members said.