
Maharashtra Government Issues Strict Social Media Guidelines for Employees: In a significant move aimed at controlling the online presence of its workforce, the Maharashtra government has issued new social media guidelines for all state employees, including contractual staff and officers working under local bodies and public sector undertakings. The notification, released on Monday, warns that any violation of these rules may lead to strict disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Service Conduct Rules, 1979.
Let’s break down what these new norms mean for lakhs of government employees across the state.
No Criticism of State Policies — Past or Present
Under the newly released Government Resolution (GR), government employees are prohibited from criticizing any existing or past policies of the Maharashtra government or other dispensations. The state has made it clear that freedom of speech for government staff on social media will be limited, especially when it comes to discussing or debating political and administrative decisions.
This measure aims to uphold the integrity and neutrality of public service, ensuring that employees do not sway public opinion or indulge in political commentary while in service.
Separate Accounts for Personal and Official Use
To streamline communication and avoid misuse, employees must maintain separate social media accounts for personal and official purposes. Mixing the two could lead to confusion, privacy concerns, and potential data leaks.
Additionally, personal accounts must be kept simple — limited to the employee’s photograph and general identity. Any display of designation, government logos, uniforms, office buildings, or government vehicles is strictly forbidden.
No Sharing of Confidential Information
The guidelines firmly state that no confidential official documents or government dossiers should be uploaded, shared, or forwarded on any social media platform without prior written approval.
This measure is intended to prevent sensitive information leaks, protect national interest, and avoid cyber threats.
Account Handover Upon Transfer or Retirement
When a government employee retires or is transferred, they are now mandated to officially hand over the social media credentials of the official account to their successor. This rule is designed to maintain continuity in official communication and ensure that social handles remain under government control.
Banned Apps Are Strictly Off-Limits
The resolution also highlights that any app banned by the state government or the Central Government is prohibited for use by employees, whether for personal or official purposes.
While the document does not list banned apps specifically, employees are advised to stay updated on apps restricted by authorities.
Apps Approved for Official Use
Certain apps like WhatsApp and Telegram may be used for official coordination, provided they follow the state’s guidelines for secure communication. However, the usage must remain professional, with no personal content mixing into government-related discussions.
What Employees Must Avoid Posting
According to the GR, government employees are not allowed to post content that includes:
- Criticism of government policies
- Objectionable, discriminatory, or defamatory material
- Any post that incites hatred or disrupts harmony
- Official documents, even partially
- Images or text disclosing:
- Government logos
- Uniforms
- Government buildings
- Vehicles
Failure to comply with any of these will attract action under the Maharashtra Civil Service Conduct Rules, 1979.
Why These Rules Matter
With growing digital influence and viral content, the Maharashtra government is taking a proactive step to safeguard its institutional image, ensure compliance, and reduce misinformation spread via employee accounts. These guidelines aim to create a responsible digital environment, where state employees act as ambassadors of integrity and trust, even in the virtual world.
Looking Ahead
These changes reflect a larger trend across India, where governments are becoming more cautious about the online presence of their employees. As more states are expected to adopt similar social media codes of conduct, public servants across the country will need to rethink their online behavior.
For now, Maharashtra has drawn a clear line between personal opinion and official responsibility, and employees must tread carefully.
The new Maharashtra social media guidelines are not just rules — they reflect a shift in how governments expect their employees to behave in the digital age. As public trust and online narratives intertwine, maintaining discipline, responsibility, and professionalism online is no longer optional — it’s essential.