Rule 8 — CCS

Rule 8: Connection with the Press or Other Media Government employees, unless authorized specifically, are restricted from engaging with the press and media in a manner that could misrepresent government policies or compromise official information15 .

A government servant shall not own, manage, or contribute to any newspaper, magazine, or publication that is political or controversial in nature. Employees must also not provide public statements, interviews, or media articles on government matters without prior approval. If a government servant is approached by the press for comments on official matters, they must refer the inquiry to the authorized government spokesperson16 .

Unauthorized disclosures of information, making statements critical of government policies, or sharing official matters on public platforms such as social media may lead to disciplinary action.

This rule ensures that all official communication is properly vetted, accurate, and does not mislead the public or create administrative conflicts.

This chapter establishes the principles of political neutrality and restrictions on public engagement for government employees. By ensuring that government servants do not engage in political activities, participate in demonstrations, or publicly express opinions that may compromise their official roles, the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, uphold the impartiality and professionalism of public administration.

These rules ensure that official matters remain confidential, government policies are not undermined, and employees maintain professionalism in their public conduct17 .

15 Ibid., Rule 8(1). 16 Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. (2011). OM No. 11013/3/2011-Estt.A. Clarification on media interaction by government employees.

Expression of Opinion and Public Communications Government servants are required to maintain restraint and discretion in expressing opinions, particularly regarding government policies, administration, and governance. The CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, impose restrictions on public criticism, participation in external inquiries, communication of official information, and subscriptions to certain organizations.

A government servant must not make statements or public expressions that are critical of the government’s present or current policies or actions.

Government employees are prohibited from making statements, writing articles, or expressing views in public forums that question, criticize, or bring disrepute to government policies, actions, or administration. This includes newspapers, television interviews, books, public speeches, and social media platforms18 .

Criticism of government policies may lead to misinterpretation of official decisions, erosion of public confidence, and disruption of administrative discipline. However, government servants may express views on administrative improvements or suggest policy changes through internal government channels or officially permitted discussion forums.

The purpose of this restriction is to display that Government as a whole unit has one voice/view on any present or current policy.

Exceptions to this restriction include cases where employees express their views in scholarly or academic discussions, provided that such opinions do not compromise government integrity or policy execution.