Lucknow: In a significant administrative directive, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered officials across the state to strictly follow protocol while interacting with Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and other public representatives.
Under the new instructions issued by Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal, a 1989-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, officials will now be required to rise from their seats, greet public representatives with folded hands, and offer them water upon their arrival at government offices. Failure to comply may invite disciplinary action under the Uttar Pradesh State Employees Conduct Rules.
The order was issued on Thursday amid repeated complaints regarding alleged disrespectful behaviour by officials towards elected representatives.
Officials Asked to Greet MPs and MLAs With Folded Hands
The government order makes it mandatory for administrative officials and employees to:
- Stand up when MPs or MLAs arrive at offices
- Greet them respectfully with folded hands
- Offer water as part of official courtesy
The directive states that several complaints had been received despite issuance of multiple earlier government orders on the same subject.
According to the order, failure to observe established protocol norms amounts to a violation of official conduct and has been described as “highly regrettable”.
Officials Must Answer Calls From Public Representatives
The order also lays down detailed communication guidelines for officials dealing with elected representatives.
Officials have been directed to:
- Answer phone calls from MPs, MLAs, and public representatives
- Send a message if attending meetings during incoming calls
- Call back at the earliest opportunity
- Listen carefully to issues raised by representatives
- Ensure prompt disposal of matters raised
The government has stressed that complaints and issues referred by elected representatives should be resolved with maximum quality and efficiency, and the concerned representatives must be informed accordingly.
Action Under Conduct Rules for Non-Compliance
The Chief Secretary has warned that officials or employees failing to comply with these instructions will face disciplinary action under the Uttar Pradesh State Employees Conduct Rules.
The order cites as many as 15 previous government directives issued on the issue, indicating continuing dissatisfaction within the government over protocol violations.
UP Govt Also Reviews Preparations for National Lok Adalat
Separately, Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal also reviewed preparations for the upcoming National Lok Adalat, scheduled to be held across Uttar Pradesh districts on May 9.
During a video conference with Divisional Commissioners and District Magistrates, he directed all participating departments to make proactive efforts to maximize disposal of pending cases.
Special Focus on Financial Recovery and Pending Cases
The Chief Secretary instructed departments to:
- Identify maximum pending cases for disposal
- Appoint nodal officers in every department
- Coordinate effectively with banks for financial recovery matters
- Ensure timely service of notices and summons
Special emphasis was laid on:
- Electricity department compounding cases
- Vehicle challan matters pending since December 21, 2021
Digital Outreach and Grassroots Workers to Be Used
To ensure wider public participation and awareness regarding the National Lok Adalat, officials have been asked to:
- Use digital platforms and modern communication tools
- Engage ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers for awareness campaigns
The administration aims to improve settlement rates and reduce pendency through coordinated district-level efforts.
