ANDThe seemingly innocuous Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) order by the Chhattisgarh government – and its hasty withdrawal – has sparked a debate about the political leanings of serving government employees.
On April 21, a circular issued by the General Administration Department — which comes under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai — stated that no government employee can become a member of any political party or organization; participate in any of its activities; or hold office in it. Referring to the provisions of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, he said it is mandatory for all government employees to discharge the duties of their office with complete “impartiality, honesty and integrity”. It also said that no government employee shall assume any position or responsibility that may affect his official duties. The circular further warned of action under the provisions of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965 and the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Classification, Review and Appeal) Rules, 1966 for violation of these rules.
Published – 29 Apr 2026 01:29 IST
