Government Issues Guidelines for Use of Social Media by State Employees Official GR Released by General Administration Department

 Government Issues Guidelines for Use of Social Media by State Employees

Official GR Released by General Administration Department

Mumbai, July 28: The General Administration Department of the Maharashtra government has issued a new set of guidelines regarding the use of social media by government officers and employees. A formal government resolution (GR) outlining these directives has been released.

While social media is recognized as a powerful communication tool in the digital age, the guidelines aim to prevent misuse such as the spread of confidential information, misinformation, or violations of official conduct rules.

As per the circular issued by the department, the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979 will be applicable to social media use as well. Violation of these rules may attract disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1979.

Key Guidelines:

·         These rules apply to all government officers and employees, including those in local self-government institutions, boards, corporations, public sector undertakings, and those appointed on deputation or contract basis.

·         Any adverse criticism of current or past policies of the state or central government on social media is strictly prohibited.

·         Social media should be used consciously and responsibly.

·         Personal and official social media accounts must be maintained separately.

·         Employees must not use websites or apps that are banned by the central or state government.

·         Only authorized and official channels should be used for disseminating information about government schemes and initiatives.

·         Messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram may be used for coordination of official work.

·         Posts regarding the success of government schemes are allowed but must avoid self-promotion.

·         Government designations, logos, uniforms, or images/videos of government property must not be uploaded on personal accounts.

·         Posting or forwarding objectionable, hateful, or discriminatory content is strictly prohibited.

·         Confidential documents must not be uploaded without proper authorization.

·         Upon transfer, official social media accounts must be properly handed over to the concerned successor.

The government has clarified that violation of these rules will lead to disciplinary action. The objective of these guidelines is to ensure responsible use of social media in the digital era and to uphold the credibility of government institutions.