The Maharashtra government, through a Government Resolution dated July 28, 2025, has introduced stringent social media guidelines for all state government employees, including contractual and deputation staff. The guidelines aim to prevent leaks of confidential information, dissemination of misinformation, and unauthorised political commentary on platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. Employees must maintain separate personal and official social media accounts and refrain from criticising current or past government policies.
Violations will trigger disciplinary actions under the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979, and the Maharashtra Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1979. These measures reflect an increasing awareness of cyber risks and the government’s intent to build a secure and professional digital ecosystem across departments.
Key Provisions of the Social Media Guidelines
The new rules explicitly prohibit government employees from sharing or uploading confidential documents, images bearing official logos, or office paraphernalia on personal accounts without authorisation. Self-promotion related to official duties is banned unless it pertains to authorised communication of government schemes or successes. Posting offensive, hateful, defamatory, or discriminatory content, including communal or politically sensitive material, is strictly forbidden.
Employees are also barred from using banned websites or apps. Messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram may be used solely for internal office coordination. Official social media accounts must be properly handed over upon transfer or resignation to ensure accountability. Only designated officials may promote government schemes officially. Regular monitoring and training sessions are planned to familiarise employees with the new standards and foster responsible social media behaviour.
Background: Misuse of Social Media Prompts Action
These guidelines were prompted by a spate of incidents where government employees misused social media to leak sensitive information and post political opinions that damaged government credibility and public trust. Several disciplinary cases were reported, indicating an urgent need to reinforce digital discipline.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis endorsed the move, highlighting the risks posed by irresponsible online conduct among public servants in maintaining good governance. The guidelines supplement existing Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules and mirror similar digital accountability frameworks in other states.
Scope and Enforcement of the Rules
The guidelines apply comprehensively to all officers and staff of the Maharashtra government, including local body employees, public sector undertakings, contract, and deputation staff. The rules cover all major social media platforms popular among employees and extend to prohibiting negative commentary not just on Maharashtra government policies but also on any government policies in India. Violations will be dealt with under disciplinary mechanisms, ensuring strict compliance.
All state departments have been urged for immediate adherence to these measures to safeguard the integrity and credibility of government institutions in the digital age.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Maharashtra government’s new social media guidelines reflect an essential step toward balancing openness and discipline in an increasingly digital public service environment. While social media provides indispensable communication tools linking government and citizens, the confidentiality of sensitive information and maintaining the dignity of public institutions are critical.
The Logical Indian supports efforts that promote responsible digital conduct without curtailing the democratic right to freedom of expression.
