Maharashtra government issues guidelines for government servants

No self-praise, no sharing of govt documents without prior approval, limited use of WhatsApp, Telegram, among some of the rules.

The Maharashtra government has issued guidelines for government servants regarding the use of social media, asking them not to criticise any current or recent policy of either the State government or the Union government.

In a list of dos and don’ts, the government has also warned of strict disciplinary action if the social media guidelines are not adhered to. From keeping personal and professional social media accounts separate, to discretion in sharing information, to avoiding the use of designations, uniforms, logos and other information on personal accounts, the detailed social media guidelines have spelt out the rules for all government servants.

The order will be applicable to all the government officers, employees including those on deputation and on contract basis, working in local self-government bodies, boards, corporations and public undertakings. Those flouting the rules will face disciplinary action as per the Maharashtra Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1979 and other relevant rules, the order stated.

Here are the main points from the government order:

• Do not criticise the current or recent policy of the State Government or any other Government in India

• Government employees should use social media very consciously and responsibly.

• A government employee should keep her/his personal and official social media accounts separate

• Do not use websites, apps, etc. banned by the Central/State Government.

• A person authorised by the Government may, with the approval of the competent authority, use only government and official media for the dissemination and publicity of government schemes, initiatives, etc. and for public participation.

• Messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. can be used to coordinate/contact regarding intra-office work.

• Officers and employees may write on social media about the collective efforts made by them in connection with the success of government/department schemes/initiatives, but care should be taken to ensure that this does not lead to self-praise.

• Texts can be posted about the special government work done by officials, but care should be taken to ensure that it does not lead to self-praise.

• Except for profile photos on personal social media accounts, avoid using your government designation, logo, uniforms, and government assets such as vehicles, buildings, etc. while uploading photos/reels/videos.

• Do not share/upload/forward any offensive, hateful, defamatory or discriminatory content, etc.

• No confidential documents, government and office documents, in part or in full, should be shared/uploaded/forwarded without authorisation and prior approval.

• After transfer, office social media accounts should be transferred properly.