Lucknow: Even on social media, making statements without permission or raising questions about policies can prove costly for government employees. The Personnel Department has reminded the top officers of the government about the rules of ‘use of communication media by government servants’. It also states that despite clear rules, statements are creating an uncomfortable situation. This will be stopped and action should be taken against those who break the rules. Additional Chief Secretary Appointment and Personnel Devesh Chaturvedi has issued orders to all Additional Chief Secretaries/Principal Secretaries.
The order issued by the Personnel Department mentions the guidelines set for government employees to speak in the media. According to this, no government employee will write to the media without permission from the government or the concerned authority. No such article or statement will be issued which criticizes the decisions of senior officials or the government. No unauthorized transaction of any information will be done. It has also been said that the form of media has now expanded. Apart from print and electronic media, it also includes social media (Facebook, X, Whatsapp, Instagram, Telegram) and digital media.
There are complaints of indiscipline
The order states that despite clear provisions in the rules, some government officials and employees are giving statements in the media. This is creating an uncomfortable situation for the government. This act of officers and employees is indicative of disregard for rules and indiscipline, so ensure strict compliance of these instructions by all your subordinates. If anyone is found behaving contrary to the rules, action should be taken against him.
