Protocol / Centre Warns Officers of Strict Action for Disrespect Towards MPs, MLAs
·5 months ago·2 min read
Key Points
- Ministry of Personnel warns of strict disciplinary action against officers found disrespecting MPs and MLAs or violating protocol.
- Penalties may include promotion stoppage, compulsory retirement, or dismissal based on proven misconduct.
- Advisory follows concerns raised by parliamentary ethics committees; officers must ensure courteous conduct and escort representatives.
New Delhi, Jan 24: The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions issued a stern warning to all states, stating that strict disciplinary action will be taken against government officers found guilty of disrespecting Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) or disregarding established protocols meant for elected representatives.
According to the advisory, if allegations of disrespect or misconduct are proven, the concerned officials may face serious penalties, including the stoppage of promotions, compulsory retirement or even dismissal from service. The ministry clarified that violations of protocol, inappropriate behaviour, or attempts to exert political pressure for personal benefit will invite action as per existing government service rules.
The directive follows concerns raised during meetings of the Ethics Committee of Rajya Sabha and the Committee on Violation of Protocol in Lok Sabha. Both committees reportedly expressed serious concern over instances of indisciplined conduct by officers while dealing with elected representatives. Taking note of these observations, the Ministry of Personnel issued fresh instructions to all state governments to ensure strict compliance.
Under the guidelines, officers are required to maintain proper decorum and etiquette while interacting with MPs and MLAs.
If an elected representative visits an officer’s office, the officer concerned must stand up to receive them and ensure courteous conduct throughout the interaction. At the time of departure, the officer is expected to escort the MP or MLA up to the office exit.
The instructions further state that security arrangements should be relaxed to allow the vehicles of elected representatives to enter office premises, in accordance with protocol norms.
The ministry has reiterated that these measures are aimed at ensuring mutual respect between the administrative machinery and elected representatives, and at maintaining institutional dignity.
Also Read: Setback for Odisha Congress as 41 Workers Quit Over Moquim Expulsion
All states have been directed to circulate the instructions among officers and ensure strict adherence to the prescribed protocol.
According to the advisory, if allegations of disrespect or misconduct are proven, the concerned officials may face serious penalties, including the stoppage of promotions, compulsory retirement or even dismissal from service. The ministry clarified that violations of protocol, inappropriate behaviour, or attempts to exert political pressure for personal benefit will invite action as per existing government service rules.
The directive follows concerns raised during meetings of the Ethics Committee of Rajya Sabha and the Committee on Violation of Protocol in Lok Sabha. Both committees reportedly expressed serious concern over instances of indisciplined conduct by officers while dealing with elected representatives. Taking note of these observations, the Ministry of Personnel issued fresh instructions to all state governments to ensure strict compliance.
Under the guidelines, officers are required to maintain proper decorum and etiquette while interacting with MPs and MLAs.
If an elected representative visits an officer’s office, the officer concerned must stand up to receive them and ensure courteous conduct throughout the interaction. At the time of departure, the officer is expected to escort the MP or MLA up to the office exit.
The instructions further state that security arrangements should be relaxed to allow the vehicles of elected representatives to enter office premises, in accordance with protocol norms.
The ministry has reiterated that these measures are aimed at ensuring mutual respect between the administrative machinery and elected representatives, and at maintaining institutional dignity.
Also Read: Setback for Odisha Congress as 41 Workers Quit Over Moquim Expulsion
All states have been directed to circulate the instructions among officers and ensure strict adherence to the prescribed protocol.
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