In a move aimed at tightening administrative discipline and improving coordination between elected representatives and government machinery, the Maharashtra government has issued a detailed circular directing officials to treat MLAs and MPs with “utmost respect and courtesy.”
The order, released on Friday, applies to all state government departments, semi-government bodies, and government-controlled institutions.
‘Rise and Greet’ Rule Introduced
One of the key instructions in the circular states that officials must stand up and greet visiting MLAs and MPs when they arrive at government offices. Officers have also been told to listen carefully to their concerns and offer help strictly in line with government rules.
Telephone conversations with MLAs and MPs, the circular adds, must be handled politely and professionally.
Reply Mandatory Within Two Months
To ensure accountability, every government office will now maintain a separate register for letters and requests received from MLAs and MPs. Departments must send a reply within 60 days.
If a delay is unavoidable, the matter must be escalated to the head of the department, and the concerned legislator must be officially informed. Heads of departments will also review such correspondence every quarter.
Lawmakers Must Be Invited to Major Events
Government departments have also been instructed to invite local MLAs, MPs, and other dignitaries — including ministers, mayors, district council presidents and municipal chairpersons — to major public functions. The circular emphasizes that proper seating arrangements and protocol must be followed at such events.
Dedicated Hours for Public Representatives
The government has further directed that department heads reserve two hours on the first and third Thursday of every month exclusively for meetings with MLAs, MPs, and citizens. Urgent matters, however, may be dealt with outside these fixed timings.
Training and Compliance
To reinforce the move, “courteous conduct” towards public representatives will now be included in all government training programs.
The circular also notes that information needed by MLAs and MPs for welfare-related work should be provided free of charge — except where restricted under the RTI Act.
Warning of Disciplinary Action
The state government has made it clear that failure to comply with these rules will lead to disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Services regulations. The circular also stresses strict adherence to Legislative Privileges Committee recommendations.
A Push Toward Better Governance
According to officials, the intent behind the order is not merely ceremonial, but to strengthen communication between bureaucracy and elected representatives — a step the government believes will help improve transparency, responsiveness, and administrative efficiency.