GOVT WARNS EMPLOYEES

The Centre has warned employees of disciplinary action if they indulge in criticism of the government or its policies. The move comes after officers of Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Central Excise) and All India Association of Central Excise Gazetted Executive Officers, among others, suggested changes in Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN), a private company tasked with creating information technology infrastructure for the goods and services tax (GST), and composition of Revenue Secretary-led GST council secretariat.

“Of late, it has been noticed that some associations or federations have commented adversely on the government and its policies. It may be brought to the notice of all associations or federations that if anyone indulges in criticism of the government and its policies, appropriate action (including disciplinary action) shall be taken,” an order issued recently by finance ministry said.

It cited service rules that bar any government servant from making any adverse criticism of any policy or action of the government.(excerpts from the Business Standard).