Public admin ministry warns against code of conduct violations
Amid rising protests from government officials over the draft recommendations of the Public Administration Reforms Commission, the Ministry of Public Administration has issued a stern warning.
The ministry emphasised that any violations of the government code of conduct by officials or employees will lead to strict disciplinary action.
In a recent notification, the ministry stated that government employees play a critical role in ensuring smooth administrative operations and delivering public services. "The success of public administration hinges on disciplined, responsible, and professional behavior from government employees," it said.
However, it expressed concern over actions like rallies, sit-ins, human chains, and pen-down strikes, which it claimed tarnish the reputation of government employees. Additionally, adverse comments on social media platforms regarding unimplemented decisions or reforms have also been deemed violations of the Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1979.
The notification highlighted Rule 30 of the Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1979, which prohibits:
Public Objections or Obstruction: Officials must not publicly oppose or hinder government decisions or incite others to do so.
Expressions of Dissatisfaction: Officials are barred from expressing dissatisfaction with government decisions or participating in movements against them.
Undue Influence: Attempts to alter or revoke government decisions through pressure are prohibited.
Fostering Discontent: Actions that create division or animosity among government servants are strictly forbidden.
Violations of these provisions will be treated as misconduct under the Government Employees (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 2018, with disciplinary actions to follow.
In recent weeks, inter-cadre conflicts have escalated over the proposed reforms, particularly the recommendation to abolish the quota for deputy secretary pools and restructure ministries based on merit and profession.
On December 22, administration cadre officials staged an unprecedented sit-in at the Secretariat.
They organised a pen-down strike on December 24.
On December 25, they held a rotest rally at the BIAM auditorium and the next day they formed a human chain to voice their demands.
Protests have been fueled by fears of marginalization of certain cadres, including education and health, from the civil service structure. The protesting officials have announced a rally in Dhaka on January 3 to outline their next steps.
The ministry iterated its strict position on undisciplined behaviour, emphasising the importance of maintaining order in the administration. "The government will not tolerate any activities that disrupt the chain of command or create public discontent," the notification read.
The ongoing unrest poses significant challenges to the government’s efforts to implement reforms and restore discipline within the public administration. As the situation unfolds, the ministry has urged officials to adhere to their professional responsibilities and the established code of conduct.
