Bihar CM Nitish Kumar. File photo
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Bihar government has introduced stringent regulations governing the use of social media by government employees. The decision was approved at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday, with the clearance of the Bihar Government Servants’ Conduct (Amendment) Rules, 2026.
The amendment has been made to the original 1976 Conduct Rules, keeping in view the growing influence of internet-based platforms and instant messaging applications. A total of 32 proposals were approved at the meeting, with the new conduct rules being among the most significant.
Under the revised provisions, no government employee will be allowed to create or operate social media accounts using their official designation, government email ID, mobile number or any form of official identity. Even from personal accounts on platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp and Telegram, employees will be barred from posting or sharing content that may tarnish the government’s image or adversely affect its policies.
Additional Chief Secretary (General Administration) Dr B. Rajendra said the move was aimed at maintaining administrative discipline.
The amended rules clarify that while government servants may express personal views, these must not conflict with their professional responsibilities. Any comments or posts that negatively reflect on government policies, decisions or working systems have been prohibited. Criticism or remarks against senior officers will also not be permitted. The disclosure of confidential information or official documents has been completely banned.
The government has imposed a total prohibition on operating social media accounts under pseudonyms or fake identities. Such accounts will not be allowed to criticise government officials, share sensitive information or circulate provocative content. This provision is intended to prevent anonymous attacks on the administration and the spread of misinformation.
Strict departmental action will be initiated against any employee found violating the rules. The government believes that unregulated social media activity not only undermines discipline but also creates confusion among the public. Hence, strict enforcement has been mandated to preserve the impartiality and credibility of the administration.
The rules specifically prohibit comments on judgments or orders of the Supreme Court, High Courts or any other courts. The use of symbols or emblems of government organisations, political parties or institutions in any form has also been barred. Criticism of media organisations or government institutions through social media will not be allowed.
Government employees will not be permitted to earn money through social media platforms. Live streaming of meetings or hearings has been prohibited, and revealing the identity of sexual offence victims will invite strict action. These standards have been framed to ensure responsibility and dignity among government servants in the digital age.
Dr B Rajendra noted that earlier there were no specific provisions for employees regarding social media conduct, but with the *Conduct Rules Amendment 2026*, the Cabinet has now formally laid down clear guidelines. “Any violation of these rules will invite action,” he said.
The Bihar government said the decision is aimed at addressing challenges arising from the misuse of social media. The new framework is expected to encourage more responsible and restrained online behaviour by government employees, strengthen the administration’s image and enhance public trust. The rules have come into force with immediate effect and will be strictly implemented across all departments.
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