July 30,2025:
The Maharashtra government has issued new directives restricting its employees from publicly criticising government policies on social media platforms. The guidelines, released through an official resolution dated July 28, are aimed at reinforcing discipline and professional conduct among public servants.
According to the resolution, employees are prohibited from posting comments that oppose or discredit any policy or decision made by the state or central government. This applies to all categories of staff, including permanent, temporary, contractual, and deputed personnel working across government departments, local administrative bodies, and public sector undertakings.
The new policy emphasizes the need to separate personal and official online identities. Employees are instructed not to use government symbols, uniforms, office buildings, or vehicles in their personal social media content. Additionally, posts that appear to promote or glorify individual officials are strictly discouraged.
Only authorized personnel may use official social media accounts to share updates on government schemes or departmental activities, and only after obtaining prior approval. Personal accounts must avoid presenting official views or confidential information.
The resolution also prohibits the use of mobile applications or platforms that have been banned by the central or state governments, regardless of whether the use is personal or professional. Messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram may be used solely for internal communication and not for public engagement.
Employees are further warned against spreading unverified or harmful content. Sharing or leaking internal documents, especially those that are sensitive or confidential, is considered a serious violation and may attract disciplinary proceedings.
The move follows growing concerns about the misuse of social media by some government employees, including the use of official premises and emblems for personal content such as videos and promotional material. Officials have noted an increase in posts that blur the line between personal expression and official representation.
The state administration has clarified that while government departments are encouraged to use digital platforms to engage with citizens and spread awareness, individual staff members are expected to maintain neutrality and avoid actions that could undermine public trust or institutional integrity.
The new social media guidelines aim to ensure that government personnel uphold ethical standards, avoid conflicts of interest, and use online platforms responsibly while representing public institutions.
