The Maharashtra government on Friday directed all state departments to treat Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) with utmost respect and courtesy.
In a comprehensive government resolution, the Maharashtra government said, “…all state departments, parastatals and government-controlled bodies treat MLAs and MPs with utmost respect and courtesy.
The initiative, the Maha government said, aims to improve good governance, transparency and administrative efficiency across the state.
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“Stand up and salute” MLAs, MPs
A Maharashtra government circular directed all officials to “stand up and salute” MLAs and MPs when visiting government offices and to listen carefully to their concerns and provide assistance as per relevant government rules.
“Telephone communications with these representatives must be conducted politely and with respect,” it said.
To ensure accountability, the state government has directed each office to maintain a separate register for all correspondence received from MLAs and MPs, with replies to be issued within two months.
In cases where a timely response is not possible, the order stated that the matter must be referred to the department head and the concerned legislator must be officially notified.
“Department heads are also required to review all such correspondence every three months.”
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Invite MLAs, MPs to all major government posts
In a circular, the Maharashtra government also directed to invite all relevant dignitaries – including central and state ministers, guardian ministers, local MLAs, MPs, mayors, district council chairmen and municipal chairmen – to key government posts. “Proper seating protocols must be followed at such events.”
Additionally, the state said department heads must set aside two hours on the first and third Thursday of every month specifically to meet MLAs, MPs and local citizens, though urgent matters can be taken up outside these designated times.
The government also recommended avoiding major programs at the local level during legislative sessions, unless unavoidable, and optimizing attention to parliamentary work.
“Emphasis is laid on strict adherence to the recommendations of the Legislative Privileges Committee and disciplinary action is prescribed for violation of existing civil service rules,” the circular said.
He also mentioned that information regarding legislative duties related to social security must be provided free of charge to MLAs and MPs, except where restricted by the Right to Information Act 2005.
To promote a culture of respect, the circular calls for the inclusion of “polite behavior modules” towards lawmakers in all government training programs.
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Maha government warns against disciplinary proceedings
The government has warned that failure to follow these instructions will result in disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Service Regulations.
This directive underscores Maharashtra’s commitment to a more respectful, transparent and accountable administrative environment, strengthening cooperation between elected representatives and the government machinery.
