Kerala govt imposes ban on cultural gatherings in office

T'puram: The state has banned activities by cultural forums and gatherings that violate the code of conduct or the govt instructions in govt offices.The personnel and administrative reforms department issued a circular in this regard on Tuesday. The decision aims to address disruptions in office activities caused by various events organised by service organisations and department-based gatherings, particularly at the Secretariat, the administrative headquarters.The instructions have been issued in the wake of numerous events held till the recent past. The govt has now restricted the gatherings to those organised solely by recognised service organisations. The change is intended to ensure that office operations remain uninterrupted. The govt also indicated that it would take strict action against individuals who organise or participate in events that violate the new ban.Interestingly, at the same time, employees' associations have been granted the freedom to conduct their meetings and conferences during working hours. For example, the Kerala Secretariat Employees' Association (KSEA) recently received permission to hold its annual conference over two full working days — Oct 22 and 23. Since a significant number of employees belong to this organisation, the Secretariat experienced a noticeable slowdown in regular activities during this time.As the govt implements this new policy, it will be interesting to observe its impact on both employee morale and overall office efficiency. Meanwhile, the pro-UDF Kerala Secretariat Association (KSA) has come up against a blanket ban on such gatherings. KSA president M S Irshad and general secretary K P Purushothaman stated that while the govt can regulate cultural forums and department-based associations in govt offices, there is no need for a ban on these associations and activities."There is no need to oppose the functioning of department-focused associations and cultural forums. However, there are numerous associations based on departments, such as those who joined service in the same year, those retiring in the same year, and those working in the same category. The activities of such associations and their WhatsApp or social media groups sometimes affect office work. If the govt makes a decision with good intentions, it will be accepted," the KSA statement said. |
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