The Centre is considering a dedicated social media code of conduct for employees and officers of the Government of India, amid growing concerns over officials sharing reels, videos and personal opinions on social-media platforms.
The proposed framework is expected to cover government employees across ranks. The matter has reportedly been discussed at senior levels of the government, with officials examining the need for clearer rules around what employees can post, comment on or share online.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked senior government officials to examine the possibility of introducing such a code, according to media reports. The issue was discussed during a recent meeting with government secretaries. Following the meeting, Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan outlined the action points for senior bureaucrats.
The proposed guidelines could establish boundaries around social media activity, particularly where an employee’s posts involve sensitive subjects, personal views or content that may conflict with their official responsibilities.
The move comes as more government officials have begun using social media to share videos and reels, including content showcasing their official work and public-facing activities. However, the government currently does not have dedicated rules specifically governing such social- media conduct, according to officials cited in reports.
It remains unclear when the proposed code will be introduced and what specific restrictions or requirements it will contain.
The proposed employee guidelines come alongside broader government efforts to strengthen regulation of social media platforms and online content.
Last month, the government shortened the time available to social- media platforms to remove unlawful information after receiving a valid government or court notice. The deadline was reduced from 36 hours to three hours.
