NewKerala.com

Himachal Bans Jeans, T-shirts for Staff; Tightens Social Media Rules

The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh has issued fresh guidelines banning jeans, T-shirts, and casual wear for all state employees, mandating formal attire. It has also prohibited employees from commenting on government policies or making political statements using personal social media accounts. The notification warns that violations of either the dress code or social media rules may lead to disciplinary action. These instructions are a reiteration of previous rules intended to ensure a professional and credible work environment.

Key Points: Himachal Govt Bans Jeans, T-shirts for Employees

  • Formal attire mandated for all staff
  • Jeans and T-shirts banned in offices
  • Social media comments on policies prohibited
  • Disciplinary action for violations
  • Rules aim to uphold professionalism
2 min read

No jeans, T-shirts for Himachal govt staff; rules tightened on social media use

Himachal Pradesh government issues strict dress code banning jeans and T-shirts for staff and restricts social media comments on policies.

"Employees have been instructed not to express opinions on government policies or schemes through personal accounts - Government Notification"

Shimla, March 18

To maintain decorum and modesty at the workplace, the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh has issued fresh instructions to its employees regarding office attire and social media conduct, banning jeans and T-shirts.

Employees have also been restrained from commenting on government policies through social media platforms.

As per the guidelines, all government employees are required to wear formal, clean and modest clothing in sober colours. Casual or party wear is strictly prohibited in offices and during court appearances.

The government observed instances of employees wearing casual clothing and using their personal social media accounts to share government schemes or endorse products.

For male employees, the dress code specifies shirts with pants or trousers, paired with shoes or sandals.

Female employees are required to wear sarees, formal suits, salwar suits, churidars, kurtas with dupattas, or trouser pants with shirts, paired with chappals, sandals or shoes.

The government emphasised that employee attire should reflect a sense of decorum, decency and professionalism.

The government has also issued clear guidelines on the use of social media by employees.

Employees have been instructed not to express opinions on government policies or schemes through personal accounts and to refrain from making political or religious statements on public forums, blogs or other online platforms.

The notification warned that violations of either the dress code or social media rules may invite disciplinary action against erring officials.

The government said these instructions are intended to uphold the integrity and credibility of public service and to ensure a professional work environment.

Referring to an official letter dated August 3, 2017, the government said that despite previous instructions, many employees are still not complying with these guidelines.

"This enforcement of the dress code marks a reiteration of the government's stance," the government said.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While professionalism is important, this feels a bit outdated. In many private companies, smart casuals are acceptable and productivity isn't affected. The focus should be on work efficiency, not just clothes. The social media rule, however, makes complete sense for government employees.
A
Aditya G
Good move. Sarkari daftars have a certain dignity. When you go to a government office, you expect officials to look the part. This also levels the playing field and sets a clear standard for everyone. Hope other states follow.
S
Sarah B
The social media guidelines are crucial. Government employees are representatives of the state; their personal opinions on policies can be misconstrued as official stance. This protects both the employee and the institution.
M
Meera T
I appreciate the intent, but the guidelines for women seem more restrictive? "Kurtas with dupattas" is specified, but what about a formal kurta without one? In summer, formal cotton clothes should be enough. The rule should be about neatness, not enforcing specific traditional garments.
V
Vikram M
This is just optics. Instead of policing clothes, they should focus on policing corruption and ensuring employees actually work during office hours. That would improve credibility more than any dress code ever could. Priorities are misplaced.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50