March 20, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced plans to regulate the social media conduct of govt officials in the state. Speaking in the Maharashtra legislative council, Fadnavis emphasized the need for discipline and appropriate behaviour on social media platforms, highlighting the importance of clear rules to prevent personal glorification and ensure responsible online engagements.

According to Fadnavis, govt officials should actively engage with citizens on social media, but avoid using these platforms for personal glorification. He expressed concern over some officials excessively using social media to enhance their image and even participating in anti-govt groups.

To address these concerns, Fadnavis announced that the state govt will issue a Government resolution within three months, outlining clear guidelines for social media conduct. The resolution will be based on existing guidelines from Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat and Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie.

Key Features of the proposed guidelines:

: Clear rules and regulations: The guidelines will establish clear rules for social media conduct, ensuring that government officials understand what is expected of them online.

: Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI will be incorporated wherever necessary to monitor and regulate social media conduct.

: Review of existing rules: The Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979 will be reviewed to frame appropriate regulations for social media conduct.

Fadnavis assured that the state govt will not tolerate indisciplined behaviour on social media platforms and will take necessary actions to ensure that govt officials adhere to the proposed guidelines.