The State government has asked its employees to refrain from electioneering on social media or face the consequences.
In a March 20 circular, the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department warned employees that posting online election propaganda would attract ‘strict disciplinary action.’ The circular, apparently, was prompted by a number of cases where employees used the social media for election-related campaigns.
‘‘It has come to the notice of the government that some employees are engaging in disseminating contents having issues related to political parties through social media, which is tantamount to election propaganda,’’ the circular issued by G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Principal Secretary, Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department, said.
The Kerala Government Servants Conduct Rules bar government employees from indulging in political activity. The latest reminder was, however, prompted by the fact that the model code of conduct is in place for the Lok Sabha election.
Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena has also asked government staff to refrain from such activities. “During the election they should not indulge in any form of political activity. It is completely against the model code of conduct and disciplinary action would be taken if such activities come to our notice,” Mr. Meena said.
Meanwhile, NGO Association president N.K. Benny concurred that the March 20 circular is in line with the existing service rules. ‘‘That said, our stand is that if government servants can vote, they should also be allowed to engage in political activity,’’ he said.
