Bihar Draws ‘Lakshman Rekha’ for Government Employees: Strict Social Media Conduct Rules Enforced

Patna:
The Bihar government has laid down a strict “Lakshman Rekha” for its employees regarding the use of social media. Under the newly approved Bihar Government Servants Conduct (Amendment) Rules, 2026, state employees have been directed to exercise extreme caution while using digital platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The amended rules were approved in the state cabinet meeting held on Thursday and have come into force with immediate effect across Bihar.

Addressing a press conference at the Information Bhawan, Additional Chief Secretary of the General Administration Department, Dr. B. Rajendra, said that social media usage has not been banned, but must strictly adhere to nearly 18 prescribed conduct guidelines.

Violation Will Invite Departmental Action

Dr. Rajendra made it clear that violation of these norms will be treated as misconduct under service rules.

“Government employees are free to use social media, but only within defined limits. Any breach of these guidelines will invite departmental proceedings and disciplinary punishment,” he said.

Clear Guidelines on Online Conduct

According to the amended rules, government employees — whether using their real identity or pseudonymous accounts — are prohibited from displaying or using:

• Government emblems or symbols
• Official mobile numbers
• Designations or government identity details

Employees must ensure that their online behavior does not undermine the dignity, neutrality, or integrity of their official position.

Ban on Objectionable and Sensitive Content

The rules impose a complete ban on posting or sharing:

• Obscene or inflammatory content
• Sensitive videos, audios, speeches, or messages
• Material that may disturb social harmony

Employees have also been instructed to refrain from expressing personal opinions or comments on political, governmental, or policy-related matters on social media.

Presenting government achievements as personal accomplishments has also been strictly prohibited.

No Comments on Judiciary or Media

Under the new conduct code, government servants are barred from commenting on or criticizing:

• Judgments or orders of the Supreme Court, High Courts, or any other court
• Media organizations or government institutions

Any such activity on digital platforms will be treated as a violation of service discipline.

Protection of Victims’ Identity Mandatory

The rules further prohibit sharing:

• Live streaming of government programs
• Videos related to court proceedings or case hearings
• Internal government meetings, webinars, or official communications

Special emphasis has been placed on protecting the identity of victims of sexual offences. Disclosure of such identity will invite strict disciplinary and legal action.

Additionally, employees have been warned against making remarks related to caste, religion, or any community.

Government’s Objective

Officials said the move aims to ensure administrative neutrality, maintain public trust, and prevent misuse of social media by government personnel.

The Bihar government’s decision is being viewed as one of the most comprehensive attempts so far to regulate digital conduct among state employees in the rapidly expanding social media landscape.