Shillong, June 15 : The Government of Meghalaya has issued an order barring all government employees from participating in any political activities. The order, issued by the Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Personnel & A. R. (A) Department, R. Lyngdoh, said that any government employee found violating the order will face strict action.
The order comes after it was brought to the government’s notice that a number of government employees have been seen openly participating in and/or attending public meetings/gatherings organized by political parties. The order said that such activities are in direct violation of Rule 20 (1) of the Meghalaya Services (Conduct) Rules, 2019, which prohibits government employees from being members of, or otherwise associated with, any political party.
The order also said that government employees are not allowed to take part in, subscribe in aid of, or assist in any other manner, any political movement or activity.
All administrative departments/heads of departments have been asked to bring the contents of the order to the attention of all district and subordinate offices for strict compliance.
The order has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have welcomed the order, saying that it is necessary to maintain the neutrality of government employees. Others have criticized the order, saying that it is an infringement on the freedom of expression of government employees.
It remains to be seen how the order will be implemented and whether it will be effective in preventing government employees from participating in political activities.
