The Jammu and Kashmir Government has issued a fresh code of conduct, warning employees against the use of derogatory, threatening or inappropriate language at the workplace and cautioning that any violation will invite strict action.
The circular has come in the backdrop of a major controversy that has rocked the administration, in which a senior IAS officer was seen abusing his junior Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS ) woman officer during an official online meeting.
Taking serious note of the incident, the government has already ordered an inquiry into the alleged misconduct. In this backdrop, the General Administration Department (GAD) has issued a circular on the observance of prescribed standards of conduct and professional decorum at all levels of administration. The government has enjoined upon all employees to ensure that official interactions are conducted with due courtesy, restraint, dignity and mutual respect. It has been made clear that these standards shall apply equally to interactions between superior officers and their subordinates, between officers and officials of different ranks, and between subordinate employees and their seniors.
Citing Rule 3 of the Jammu and Kashmir Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971, the circular reiterates that all officers and officials are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity, devotion to duty, discipline and conduct becoming of a public servant.
