The guidelines apply not only to state government staff, but also to employees of local bodies, boards, corporations, public undertakings, as well as those working on contract or deputation. The government has made it clear that disciplinary action will be taken against those who violate these guidelines, officials said
The govt has said that these guidelines have been prepared to ensure that social media is used responsibly in the digital age. Representational Pic/File
The Maharashtra government on Monday issued fresh guidelines regulating the use of social media by government officers and employees, reported the IANS.
As per the latest government resolution, the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979 will now extend to online and social media activities. Any breach of these rules will attract disciplinary measures under the Maharashtra Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1979.
The guidelines apply not only to state government staff, but also to employees of local bodies, boards, corporations, public undertakings, as well as those working on contract or deputation. Officials have been strictly barred from posting critical comments on current or recent policies of the Maharashtra or Indian government, according to the IANS.
The government employees must use social media responsibly, ensuring a clear distinction between personal and professional accounts. Use of platforms or websites banned by the central or state government is strictly forbidden. Only authorised and official channels may be used to promote government schemes and initiatives. However, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram may be used for internal coordination, the officials said, as per the IANS.
Officials are permitted to share posts about the success of government schemes, provided they avoid self-promotion. Uploading images or videos featuring government logos, uniforms, official designations, or property to personal accounts is not allowed. Sharing or forwarding offensive, hateful, or discriminatory content is also strictly prohibited, they said, the news agency reported on Monday.
According to the guidelines, government officers and employees can post on social media regarding the success of government schemes; however, they will have to be careful not to self-praise.
The government officers and employees are prohibited from uploading any confidential documents on social media without authorised approval. After the transfer, the official social media account will have to be transferred properly, officials said.
The government has made it clear that disciplinary action will be taken against those who violate these guidelines. The government has said that these guidelines have been prepared to ensure that social media is used responsibly in the digital age and that the credibility of the government system remains intact.
(with IANS inputs)
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