State issues directive for employees on social media use

Ranchi: The Hemant Soren govt in Jharkhand on Tuesday asked its employees to ensure professional conduct while using various social media platforms and refrain from making politically biased, socially divisive and critical commentaries of the govt's policy decisions. A circular to this effect was issued by the state department of personnel, administrative reforms and Rajbhasha in the evening. The four-page circular detailed dos and don'ts, including maintaining professional and ethical standards, misuse of post, maintaining confidentiality and refraining from political activities. The circular, undersigned by the department's secretary, Pravin Kumar Toppo, asks employees to refrain from violating service regulations, refraining from endorsing political activities and criticising govt policies or a decision. "Govt employees must also refrain from endorsing any private business entity through their social media posts or use it for personal gains of any of their family members or peers," the circular reads.While department officials were not available to explain the reason behind the move, govt sources said it is aimed at curbing the growing trend among senior and mid-level officials of endorsing political ideologies and criticizing govt's policies on social media, which can dent its public image.