…Otherwise, Direct Suspension! Major Decision by State Government; A Framework of Rules for Employees Regarding Social Media Use

Rules for State Employees- The State Government’s General Administration Department has taken a major decision. To prevent the spread of confidential government information, the circulation of false information through social media, and expressing opinions on social platforms by violating government rules, the government has issued new guidelines. If government instructions are not followed, the employee will have to face disciplinary action.

A new circular with these instructions has been issued. Through this, government employees have now been instructed not to share confidential government information, spread false content through social media, or comment on social platforms in violation of rules. The circular clearly states that government employees must not violate government policies while expressing themselves or posting on platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, etc.

The dissemination of confidential information, the spread of false or misleading content against the government, and the broadcasting of comments or content that creates divisions based on caste, religion, language, region, or social groups have been banned. Additionally, government employees should not post criticism or misleading content about government decisions from their personal accounts. Before sharing any information, it is necessary to verify whether it has been officially announced by the government.

Ensuring such verification while sharing information is important so that isolated or incorrect information is not spread, and misleading messages are avoided. Meanwhile, the circular warns that violation of these rules will lead to disciplinary action against the concerned employee. This may include suspension, salary deduction, withholding of promotions, among other punitive measures for breaching service rules.