Maharashtra directs government officials to ‘stand and greet MP or MLA’, use polite language

The Maharashtra government on Thursday directed officials to “stand and greet” elected representatives when they arrive in the office and avoid “discourteous or disrespectful” conduct, reported The Indian Express.

In detailed guidelines issued to government officials, they were also asked to use polite language during phone conversations and listen attentively to concerns raised by the elected representatives, according to PTI.

If officials fail to comply with the new protocols, they will face action under the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules and the Maharashtra Government Servants Regulation of Transfers and Prevention of Delay in Discharge of Official Duties Act, according to the guidelines issued by the General Administration Department and signed by Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar.

The instructions came after complaints from elected representatives who alleged that officials were not making sufficient time to meet with them or address the matters they raised, PTI reported.

With the guidelines, the government has set strict timelines for officials to respond to MPs and MLAs.

“Officials must send a final reply within two months, except in cases relating to transfers or promotions,” stated the government. “If a reply cannot be issued within this period, the officer must inform the department head and the concerned MP or MLA in writing, explaining the delay.”

Department heads have been asked to review the status...

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