Maha social media circular threatto democratic values: Dhanorkar
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Chandrapur: Chandrapur MP Pratibha Dhanorkar has slammed the Maharashtra government's recent resolution issued on July 28 restricting social media use by government employees, calling it a direct attack on freedom of expression and a threat to democratic values.
In a letter to CM Devendra Fadnavis, Dhanorkar demanded immediate withdrawal of the circular. The directive framed under Maharashtra Civil Services Rules, 1979, lays down strict conditions barring govt staff from making 'criticising the govt', engaging in 'self-promotion', and sharing confidential information online. It further mandates the separation of personal and official social media accounts, bans use of certain apps, and warns of disciplinary action for non-compliance.
Calling the move 'draconian and unconstitutional', the Congress MP said the resolution seeks to silence govt employees and suppress their right to express views in a democratic setup. "This is not just a govt circular but an infringement on the constitutional rights guaranteed to every citizen, including public servants," Dhanorkar said.
She argued that while protecting confidential information is important, the govt cannot 'misuse' such provisions to curb fundamental freedom. "Conditions like barring critical opinions or restricting creative expression will put undue pressure on employees and stifle their independent thinking," she said.
"The circular is against the spirit of our democracy. I demand it to be withdrawn without delay in the interest of justice, transparency, and freedom," she added.
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