Punjab government has issued a directive barring government employees from using social media platforms, instructing them not only to stop posting but also to refrain from commenting on or sharing digital content. The order, circulated to all provincial departments, specifically restricts engagement with widely used platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. Officials described the measure as necessary to protect national security, maintain public order, and uphold moral standards, adding that compliance with the ban is compulsory for all civil servants.
The circular builds on existing restrictions under the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules 1964, which forbid public officials from participating in political activity or making unauthorized statements. With the rapid growth of digital platforms and their role in shaping public discourse, authorities emphasized that unchecked use by civil servants could blur the line between professional duties and personal opinions. By tightening restrictions, the provincial government seeks to reinforce discipline within the bureaucracy and ensure that online behavior does not compromise official responsibilities or undermine policy decisions.
The government also issued a warning that violations of this directive will attract disciplinary proceedings under the Punjab Employees Efficiency, Discipline and Accountability (PEEDA) Act. This legislation provides a framework for penalties ranging from formal warnings and financial recovery to suspension or dismissal from service. Officials pointed out that some employees had previously used online platforms in ways that risked politicizing government work or criticizing official decisions, prompting the administration to move towards a complete prohibition on social media activity. By clarifying that even passive actions such as sharing or liking posts fall within the ban, the circular aims to eliminate ambiguity in enforcement.
This policy reflects broader concerns about regulating state employees’ digital presence in an environment where social media has become central to political debate and public opinion. Authorities believe that unchecked participation could expose sensitive information or undermine confidence in government institutions. At the same time, the decision highlights the tension between freedom of expression and the responsibilities tied to civil service roles. While the ban limits personal use of platforms, it underscores the state’s focus on maintaining a neutral and disciplined administrative structure in the digital age.
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