CCS (Conduct) Rules — Study Notes

• ⚠️Honorary employment should be exceptional — only in abnormal circumstances or when suitable paid employees are not available. Offered only to persons of meritorious service, eminence and integrity.
• ℹ️Services should be utilised in an advisory capacity only — no executive, administrative or judicial powers.
• 💰Honorary workers shall be paid a nominal salary of ₹1 per month to bring them within the ambit of the Government Servants Conduct Rules. They may voluntarily surrender this nominal salary by writing to the Accounts Officer.
• 🔒Honorary workers are automatically subject to the Indian Official Secrets Act, 1923 — no separate declaration required, but the position should be made clear at appointment.
• ℹ️For honorary workers prominent in public or political life, Rules 8 (press), 9 (criticism of Government) and 5 (politics) shall as a working arrangement not be strictly enforced in so far as participation in politics is concerned. All other rules apply fully.
• ⚠️For Members of Parliament employed in honorary capacity — must not amount to holding office of profit under Article 102(1)(a). Nominal salary requirement (clause iv) shall not be enforced; advisory-only restriction (clause iii) shall be strictly adhered to.
• 📋All proposals for employment of honorary workers, or for relaxation of any of the basic principles, must be referred to the Ministry of Home Affairs for prior concurrence.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/2/50-Ests.(A), dated 20.06.1951

• ✅Wholly Government-financed corporate undertakings (where whole capital is invested by the State): The activities of employees should be restricted in the same manner as GS directly under Government. CCS (Conduct) Rules should be extended — either by rules under statutory authority or as terms of contract.
• ⚠️Corporate undertakings controlled or partly financed by Government: CCS (Conduct) Rules should be applied wherever possible with such modifications as may be necessary.
• 📋Statutory and other corporate public sector undertakings should be advised to bring their Conduct Rules in line with the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 — incorporating particularly the integrity-related provisions recommended by the Santhanam Committee.

• ⚠️The CCS (Conduct) Rules apply to all persons formally appointed to a civil service or post — not merely because they receive remuneration from Government.
• ℹ️Non-official members of Commissions/Boards/Committees who prefer to maintain their non-official status should be appointed as Chairman/Member of the Commission/Committee without reference to any civil service or post — on suitable honoraria — so that the rules do not apply to them.
• ⚠️Where honoraria sanctioned for honorary workers are substantial, the honorary character of the employment is lost. Honorarium should be nominal — not equivalent to regular salary — if the non-official status is to be maintained.

• ✅The President has directed that the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 shall not apply to any Extra-Departmental Agent in the Posts and Telegraphs Department who does not hold any other post in connection with the affairs of the Union.

Source: MHA Notification No. F.25/29/57-Ests.(A), dated 25.01.1959

• ✅No officer who does not have a reputation for honesty should be placed in a position where there is considerable scope for discretion (Planning Commission's First Five Year Plan, Ch. VI).
• ✅GS especially those holding positions of trust and responsibility should not only be honest and impartial but also have the reputation of being so. In their social relations and dealings, those holding responsible posts should ensure that there is no ground or occasion to suggest that some individuals have greater access or influence with them than others.

Source: MHA OM No. 41/2/55(II)-Ests.(A), dated 23.04.1955

• 📋Two basic principles: (i) GS should show courtesy and consideration to MPs/MLAs; (ii) They should carefully consider what MPs/MLAs say but should always act according to their own best judgement.
• ✅Priority in meetings: Officers should set apart time daily for visitors. Within those hours, MPs/MLAs get priority — except when a visitor has a prior appointment, in which case the MP/MLA should be seen immediately thereafter. Any deviation from an appointment with an MP must be promptly explained and a fresh appointment fixed.
• ✅Physical courtesies: An officer should rise to receive and see off an MP/MLA visiting him.
• ✅Seating at public functions: MPs appear at Article 30 of the Warrant of Precedence — above officers of the rank of full General, Secretaries to GoI etc. Block seats for MPs must be reserved till the end of the function and must not be occupied by others even if vacant.
• ✅Letters from MPs/MLAs: Must be acknowledged promptly, responded to at appropriate level expeditiously, and relevant non-confidential information/statistics furnished when asked. In doubtful cases, take higher authority's instructions before refusing.
• ✅Telephonic messages: Officers must not ignore telephonic messages from MPs/MLAs left during their absence — must contact the Member at the earliest.
• ✅Public functions: MPs/MLAs of the area must be invariably invited to public functions organized by Government offices. Invitations should be sent through speedier modes well in advance. Receipt of invitation by the Member must be confirmed by the officer/official concerned. Functions should be held, as far as possible, when Parliament is not in session.
• ✅Parliamentary Committee references: Must be attended to promptly — not passed routinely down the line. A senior officer at Joint Secretary level or equivalent should be charged with ensuring this.
• ⛔GS's own service grievances: A GS should not approach MPs/MLAs for sponsoring his individual case — this is prohibited under the relevant Conduct Rules (see Rule 20).
• 📋Addressing MPs: They should be addressed as "Member of Parliament" (or MP) — not as Member of Lok Sabha or Member of Rajya Sabha — unless greater specificity is required.

• ⛔A GS who participates in or organises conversions from one religion to another — especially by using directly or indirectly his official position or influence — acts in a manner that creates an impression of favouring persons of a particular religion. While no specific rule has been added to the Conduct Rules, such conduct may be treated as good and sufficient reason for disciplinary action under CCS (CCA) Rules.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/50/57-Ests.(A), dated 15.01.1958

• ⚖️Neglect of wife and family in a manner unbecoming of a Government servant may be regarded as good and sufficient reason for disciplinary action under CCS (CCA) Rules — without invoking any specific Conduct Rule. However, if legal proceedings for maintenance are pending in Court, Government should not simultaneously take departmental action as it may amount to contempt of court.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/16/59-Ests.(A), dated 01.09.1959

• ⛔Article 17 of the Constitution abolishes untouchability. The Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955 makes it an offence. A GS found guilty of the practice of untouchability in any form will be considered unfit for public service and disciplinary action will be taken against him — in addition to liability to prosecution. Government servants have a special obligation to enforce the Act and help create the necessary climate for complete elimination of untouchability.

• ✅The GS's first obligation is to render service to, and not merely to exercise authority over, the public. If a complaint is received and established that a GS has acted in a discourteous manner or adopted dilatory tactics, deterrent and prompt action should be taken against him. Training institutions must lay special emphasis on this.

Source: MHA OM No. 14/9/66-Ests.(A)-I, dated 03.08.1966

• ⛔No GS should play cards on lawns or open spaces inside or outside office buildings. Card games should be confined to recreation rooms or approved places. No indoor games after 7:00 PM except on special occasions (tournaments etc.). GS must not overstay the lunch hour. Violation of these instructions renders GS liable to disciplinary action.

• ⚖️Action can be taken against a GS for misconduct committed before his employment if the misconduct has a rational connection with his present employment and renders him unfit and unsuitable for continuing in service. The charge-sheet must specifically state that the past misconduct renders him unfit and unsuitable for continuance in service.

Source: MHA OM No. 39/1/67-Ests.(A), dated 21.02.1967

• 🔗See GoI Decision 4 under Rule 7 (Demonstration and Strikes).

• ⚠️Rule 3(2)(i) — the duty of supervisory officers to ensure integrity and devotion to duty of subordinates — is intended to be invoked only in cases where there has been a failure on the part of the supervisory officer concerned to take all reasonable and necessary steps. It is not meant to penalise supervisors for isolated acts of subordinates beyond their control.

Source: Cabinet Secretariat OM No. 25/2/72-Ests.(A), dated 10.01.1973

• 📋Six key rules on oral instructions:

• 📌Senior officers should not, as far as possible, issue oral instructions to subordinates.
• 📌If oral instructions are issued, they must be confirmed in writing immediately thereafter.
• 📌If a junior seeks written confirmation, the senior must confirm in writing — he cannot refuse to confirm, nor can he simply deny having given the direction.
• 📌A junior who has received oral orders must seek written confirmation as early as practicable.
• 📌Where a Minister's personal staff communicates an oral order on behalf of the Minister, it should be confirmed in writing immediately thereafter.
• 📌If oral instructions from the Minister/personal staff are not in accordance with norms/rules/regulations, the junior officer should seek further clear orders from the Secretary or Head of Department, stating clearly that the oral instructions are not in accordance with the rules. If in accordance — bring to the notice of Secretary/HoD for information.

• ⛔As a general policy (with PM's approval), Secretaries to Government need not be appointed to the Boards of Public Sector Undertakings or companies in which PSUs are intimately involved. This applies to Secretaries of Departments irrespective of the service to which they belong.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/11/93-Estt.(A), dated 25.10.1993

• ⛔A GS must be impartial and must not show undue favour or ill-will in his official dealings. If a GS is found to misuse his official position or to abet and connive at improper and illegal acts, he shall be liable to disciplinary action for violation of Rule 3 of CCS (Conduct) Rules.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/10/93-Estt.(A), dated 06.10.1993

• ⛔A GS is required to take prior permission for leaving his station/headquarters, and more so when proposing to go abroad during such absence (FR 11; CSR Article 56).
• ✅Exception: Separate permission may not be necessary where the GS has indicated his intention of leaving headquarters along with his leave address in the leave application — and if the leave is sanctioned, permission for going abroad is also implied. But leave-sanctioning authorities must keep this in mind.
• ✅Officers who are competent to sanction their own leave must obtain permission for leaving station from their superior authority.
• 📋When seeking permission to visit abroad, the GS is required to furnish information on the proposed and previous private visits during the last four years (as per prescribed proforma — revised per Delhi HC direction in Chandra Kumar Jain Vs. Union of India).
• ⚖️Failure to obtain permission before leaving for foreign visits is to be viewed seriously and may entail disciplinary action.

• ✅Every GS is required to maintain devotion to duty and act in his best judgement. Accordingly, all GS are enjoined to faithfully implement laid down policies, rules and regulations in service matters. Proper implementation considerably reduces litigation on service matters.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/6/94-Estt.(A), dated 27.05.1994

• 📋Based on the Supreme Court's judgment in Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan (JT 1997 (7) SC 384), every organisation must have an appropriate Complaints Committee for redressal of sexual harassment complaints.
• ⚠️The Complaints Committee must be headed by an officer sufficiently higher in rank so as to lend credibility to the investigation (heading by an UDC-level officer is a mockery of the system).
• ⚖️Pursuant to the SC's order in Medha Kotwal Lele & Others vs. Union of India (2004) and the consequent amendment to Rule 14(2) of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965: the report of the Complaints Committee shall be deemed to be an enquiry report (not merely a preliminary report) under the CCS Rules. The disciplinary authority shall act on the report in accordance with the rules.

• ℹ️A comprehensive and exhaustive enumeration of objects or activities that would attract Rule 6 is not practicable.
• 📋To prevent arbitrary action at lower levels, it has been decided that action for alleged violation of Rule 6 can be taken by a disciplinary authority only when an authority not below the level of a Head of Department has decided that the objects or activities of the Association concerned are such as would attract Rule 6.
• ⚠️Where the Head of Department is himself in doubt, he shall seek the advice of the Administrative Ministry/Department concerned before action for the alleged violation is initiated.

Source: MHA, Deptt. of Personnel & AR No. 11013/2/77-Estt.(A), dated 07.06.1978

• 🔗See GoI Decision 4 under Rule 7 (Demonstration and Strikes) and GoI Decision 10 under Rule 3 (General). Affixing posters on office walls without permission renders GS liable to appropriate action.

• ⛔Any Government servant who is an office-bearer or member of the Executive Committee of a Service Association should not himself deal in his official capacity with any representation or other matters connected with that Association.

Source: MHA OM No. 24/1/60-Estt.(B), dated 25.01.1960

• ⚖️Government servants who resort to any of the acts listed above violate Rule 7(ii) and disciplinary action can be taken against them.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/23/66-Ests.(A), dated 09.12.1966

• ⛔"Gherao" involving forcible confinement of public servants within office premises constitutes criminal offences (wrongful restraint, wrongful confinement, criminal trespass, incitement to offences) and is subversive of discipline and harmful to public interest.
• 📋Action to be taken against prominent participants:

• 📌Disciplinary action for contravention of Rules 3 and 7 of CCS (Conduct) Rules. Charge-sheet should specify the criminal nature of the acts and that conduct was wholly unbecoming of a GS.
• 📌Absence due to participation in Gherao to be treated as unauthorized absence involving break in service — not regularized as leave of any kind.
• 📌A written report to the Officer-in-charge of the Police Station having jurisdiction must be made requesting registration of the offence. Copies to Police Commissioner/SP and Home Secretary of the State.
• 📌If Police fails to act — file a complaint before the appropriate Magistrate. In certain circumstances, a petition before the High Court for appropriate writ may be filed after taking legal advice.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/S.11/67-Ests.(A), dated 13.04.1967 & 15.04.1967

• ⛔Affixing posters and other notices on walls, doors etc. of Government offices and buildings by Government servants (individually or through unions/associations) is not permitted — except on designated notice boards with permission of competent authority as per prescribed procedure for recognized associations.
• ⚖️Government servants who affix or display posters/notices in violation of these instructions render themselves liable to appropriate action.

Source: Deptt. of Personnel OM No. 25/17/71-Ests.(A), dated 26.08.1971

• ⚠️When political demonstrations are held in or pass through the vicinity of Government offices, Government employees should stay inside their offices and keep away from demonstrators or the crowd near the place of demonstration. Getting mixed up with demonstrators creates disciplinary complications.

• 🎯Balancing Act: The Government does not want to prevent qualified relatives from finding work, but must ensure officers remain under no obligation to private firms.
• 📜Group 'A' Rule: If a dependent wants to work for a firm the officer has official dealings with, prior permission must be obtained — or matter reported immediately in urgent cases, with employment treated as provisional.

• 📢Mandatory Disclosure: If a proposal arises to award a contract to a firm where an officer's relative is employed, the officer must declare this fact.
• 🚫Recusal: Officer must desist from handling the case. It must be handed to another officer of equivalent or superior standing.

• 🗂️Initial Filing: All new employees (except Group D) must declare details of close relations in the prescribed proforma at the time of first appointment.
• 📁Record Keeping: Information to be maintained in the employee's confidential report dossier.
• 🔄Annual Updates: Changes must be reported at the end of each year to the Ministry or Department.

• ✅Government servants are not required to obtain any sanction to broadcast on All India Radio if such broadcasts are of a purely literary, artistic or scientific character. The onus of ensuring that the broadcasts are of such a character rests on the Government servant concerned.
• ✅Where no sanction is required for such broadcasts, no permission is necessary to receive the honorarium under FR 46(b).
• ⚠️In cases where sanction to broadcast is necessary, such sanction — if given — shall be taken to carry with it also the sanction to receive the honorarium.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/32/56-Ests.(A), dated 15.01.1957

• ⛔Government servants visiting foreign countries shall refrain from giving expression to views on Indian or foreign affairs — in particular, from making any written or oral statements — without specific prior approval of the Head of the Indian Mission in the country visited.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/71/51-Ests., dated 17.10.1951

• ℹ️The Estimates Committee endorsed the view that Government officers must be given full freedom to express their differing views internally before a decision is taken. It is entirely for the Minister to accept or not accept the officer's view. Suppressing an officer's ability to express differing views damages morale and administration.
• ℹ️The Committee also urged Government to shield officers against unjustified attacks for actions done in good faith.

Source: MHA OM No. 14/9/66-Ests.(A)-II, dated 03.08.1966

• ✅Government servants are free to give frank expression to their personal views before the Administrative Reforms Commission under Rule 10(3) — no prior permission of Government or Head of Department is required for this purpose.
• ⛔However, the evidence tendered should not be given publicity as that would amount to public criticism of Government (Rule 9) or unauthorized communication of information (Rule 11).

Source: MHA OM No. 25/8/66-Ests.(A), dated 27.07.1966

• ⛔Service associations (including Federations/Unions) passing resolutions, making statements or expressing opinions that violate Rule 9 render the individual signatories/parties (serving Government employees) liable to disciplinary action. Cadre controlling authorities should view such misconduct seriously.
• ⚠️This applies to office-bearers of associations, editors/publishers of journals issued by such associations, and individuals who in their personal capacity or as part of such bodies violate Rule 9.

• ✅Secretaries: May, if they desire, give personal views in light of their own knowledge and experience — without prior Government permission.
• ⚠️Other Secretariat officers (Additional/Joint/Deputy/Under Secretaries) and Heads of Departments: May be permitted by Government to give evidence orally or in writing on matters in their respective spheres. Must obtain prior permission of Government before appearing.
• ✅Service association representatives: May appear before the Pay Commission on behalf of their service associations without prior Government permission, if so authorised by the association.
• ✅Individual Government servants: May submit Memoranda etc. to the Pay Commission in their individual capacity — provided individual grievances are not put to the Commission.

Source: DP&AR OM No. 11013/16/83-Estt.(A), dated 16.11.1983

• ⛔While communicating adverse remarks in the ACR to a Government servant, the identity of the superior officer who recorded the remarks should not normally be disclosed. The GS should focus on the defects/shortcomings found — not on who recorded them. Disclosure may lead to unpleasantness and personal animosity.
• ✅If in a particular case it is considered necessary, the authority dealing with the representation may at his discretion allow the identity to be communicated.

Source: MHA OM No. 51/2/64-Ests.(A), dated 30.03.1964

• ⛔All Government servants have a duty to safeguard the security of all classified information and papers to which they have access in the course of their official duties.
• 📋Only Ministers, Secretaries and other officers specially authorised by the Minister are permitted to meet representatives of the Press and give information. Any other officer approached by the press shall direct him to the Press Information Bureau.
• 📩Any officer (other than Secretaries) specially authorised by the Minister who meets the press must immediately submit a gist of the subject discussed to the Secretary of the Ministry/Department.

Source: MHA OM No. 29/9/67-Ests.(A), dated 04.07.1967

• ⛔Government servants and former Government servants have been found quoting or copying Government circulars marked "secret", notes from files etc. in their representations/appeals — when they were ordinarily not expected to have seen or retained such documents.
• ⚖️This constitutes contravention of Rule 11 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules as well as Section 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923 — rendering the person liable to prosecution. The matter can also be dealt with departmentally under the relevant Discipline Rules.

• ⛔Government servants have been found unauthorisedly communicating with the Press — in their own name or in pseudonymous names — criticising the functioning of their own Ministry or expressing views in direct opposition to the Minister's public statements.
• ⚖️Violation of the provisions of Rule 11 and the Manual of Office Procedure (paras 110 and 113) amounts to serious misconduct. Cadre controlling authorities are advised to view such misconduct seriously.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/16/98-Estt.(A), dated 10.12.1998

• ⛔Government servants should not sponsor the raising of funds from the public for any purpose whatsoever without previous permission.
• ✅Mere payment of a personal subscription to a charitable or benevolent fund is permissible — it does not amount to "participation in raising" such fund (except if Rule 5 applies — taking part in politics).

Source: MHA OM No. 25/4/48-Ests., dated 28.02.1948

• ✅Members of a union may freely collect subscriptions among themselves for welfare activities of the union — so long as the appeal is confined to members, no prior permission is needed.
• ⛔If any approach to the public is made (directly or indirectly), prior permission is necessary.
• ✅Where a matter affecting the general interest of members of a union is in dispute and union rules permit spending funds on it, members may collect funds from amongst themselves for that special purpose.
• ⛔Where action is taken against a person in his personal capacity or on grounds particular to him — no funds should be collected even from amongst members for his defence.

Source: MHA OM No. 24/10/55-Ests.(B), dated 10.08.1955

• ✅Government servants may participate in Flag Day Collections for the benefit of ex-servicemen on a voluntary basis. Government of India has relaxed the provisions of Rule 12 for this specific purpose.

Source: MHA Memo No. 25/33/55-Ests., dated 31.10.1955

• ✅Sanction accorded to officers at the level of Sub-Divisional Officers and Heads of Departments to associate themselves with raising the National Defence Fund. Heads of Department and District Magistrates are empowered to accord similar sanction to such other officers under them as they consider suitable.

Source: MHA OM No. F.25/64/62-Ests.(A), dated 01.11.1962

• ⛔Government servants should not be allowed to associate themselves with the collection of subscriptions for the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund.
• ✅They are free to make their own personal contributions to the Fund.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/33/64-Ests.(A), dated 31.10.1964

• ✅Government servants may participate in the fund-raising efforts of the National Foundation for Communal Harmony (including its "Fund Raising Week" and "Flag Day") on a voluntary basis. Government of India has relaxed the provisions of Rule 12 for this purpose, keeping in view the Foundation's objectives of promoting communal harmony and rehabilitating children orphaned in communal violence.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/9/95-Estt.(A), dated 02.11.1995

• ✅Symbolic/Ceremonial gifts (e.g., ceremonial sword, ceremonial robe) — may be retained by recipients regardless of value.
• ✅Non-symbolic gifts: May be retained if value does not exceed ₹1,000. In marginal/doubtful cases, the gift must be reported to the Ministry/Department with estimated value; the Ministry refers the case to the Toshakhana for valuation. If value is within ₹1,000 — returned to recipient. If value exceeds ₹1,000 — retained in Toshakhana; recipient may purchase by paying the difference (assessed value minus ₹1,000).
• ⛔Cash gifts: No cash gift should be accepted by any GS visiting a country abroad as a guest of that country — even if the host country pays transport and hotel bills.
• ⛔Arms and Ammunition in prohibited category (Schedule I, Category I of the Arms Rules, 1962) shall not be accepted as presents. The GS may politely decline, explaining import restrictions.
• ℹ️Toshakhana articles disposal: Articles not purchased by recipients may be: used in Rashtrapati Bhawan, PM's residence, museums, Indian embassies abroad, or Government departments; sold at auction (neutral agency, not MEA); used as counter-presents. Reserve price for first auction = appraised value + customs duty.
• ℹ️Head of Mission (on termination of assignment): May retain souvenir presents given by the Diplomatic Corps (e.g., silver salver bearing colleagues' signatures) even if value exceeds ₹1,000.
• ℹ️Gifts abroad — no Toshakhana remittance required: If not purchased by recipient, gift can be kept in the Head of Mission's residence as an exhibit/object of art. Ministry of External Affairs should be informed.

• ✅A farewell entertainment of substantially private and informal character may be held, and gifts of trifling value (as defined under the Rules) may be accepted.
• ⛔At the time of transfer: No GS should be given permission to accept gifts of more than trifling value.
• ✅At the time of retirement: Gifts from staff members may be accepted, subject to prior permission of Government wherever such permission is necessary.

• ⚠️Private hospitality: Officers should avoid familiarity arising out of private hospitality. When in doubt, an officer should abstain from an invitation. Officers should not accept invitations from persons who have cases pending before them.
• ℹ️If a Minister accepts an invitation, it is not incumbent on the official to accept it.
• ⛔Passage and hospitality from foreign contracting firms: Officers should neither accept, nor be permitted to accept, offers of cost of passage to foreign countries and hospitality by way of free board and lodging offered by foreign firms contracting with Government (directly or through agents). The only exception is training abroad offered as part of aid programmes or contracts with Government of India or a Public Sector Undertaking.
• ⚠️Contacts with business firms: Government servants must exercise adequate care and discretion when maintaining contacts with outsiders (even when necessary for public interest). Neither the Government nor the GS personally should become obliged or committed to such contacts.

• ⚠️Invitations for free inaugural flights from Air India, Indian Airlines or foreign airlines amount to a "gift" under the Explanation to Rule 13(1). Administrative Ministries must consider carefully before granting permission — ensuring the GS's impartial judgment is not (or does not appear to be) affected. The Ministry of Civil Aviation must be consulted in all cases.

• ✅Government servants may accept Free Companion Tickets or variations thereof (including Flying Returns / Frequent Flier benefits) — but restricted to National Carriers only (Air India and Indian Airlines) for the Companion Free Scheme.
• ✅There is no objection to Government servants availing of the benefit of Frequent Flier Programmes or Flying Return Programmes of other airlines (including foreign airlines) as well.

• ⚠️A Government servant must obtain prior permission of the Government before becoming a member of a book club run by a foreign agency. If membership entitles the GS to receive books as gifts, the question of acceptance is governed by Rule 13.

• ⛔It is against the spirit of Rule 14 for Government servants to — accept invitations to declare buildings open, lay foundation stones of new buildings, or allow roads, bridges, buildings, parks or public institutions (hospitals, schools, colleges) to be named after them.
• ℹ️Such acts are inappropriate and inconsistent with the role of detached impartiality legitimately expected of Government servants and would have an unwholesome effect.
• ⚠️On occasions that have cultural and sociological significance — especially in remote areas — participation may be unavoidable. Government servants should, as far as possible, refrain. When in doubt, take prior permission of superior officers.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/24/57-Ests.(A), dated 16.09.1957

• ℹ️See Government of India Decision No. 2 under Rule 13 for detailed instructions on acceptance of gifts by Government servants on the occasion of transfer or retirement.

• ⚠️There is no specific rule on awards from private organisations, but the general policy is that awards from private bodies do not need to be encouraged. If a GS has done outstanding work, Government itself has various methods to recognize his merits.
• ℹ️Acceptance of awards was not objected to in some isolated cases where the body giving the award was highly respected and the award did not include any monetary component.
• ⛔Decision 3A — Categorical prohibition: Government servants should not be allowed to accept awards of monetary benefits instituted by private trusts/foundations etc.
• 📋Main criterion for granting permission: The award should not have a monetary component. The competent authority must decide on a case-to-case basis.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/2/99-Estt.(A), dated 24.02.1999

• ✅Ordinarily, no objection to pursuit of knowledge in leisure hours — subject to the condition that it does not detract from efficiency. Administrative authorities may require prior permission before joining educational institutions or University degree courses. Permission is ordinarily to be granted but may be withdrawn at any moment without assigning reasons.
• ✅Government servants belonging to Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes may be allowed to take full advantage of educational facilities subject to the above policy.
• ⏱️Tenure Officers: The period of tenure must be taken into account when granting permission for educational courses. If completion of the course would require extension of tenure, this Department (DOPT) must be consulted before permission is granted.

• ⛔Part-time Lectureship amounts to a regular remunerative occupation — it attracts Rule 15 (formerly Rule 12) and requires the sanction of Government, not merely SR 11 powers. SR 11 powers are only for casual or occasional work.
• ⛔A whole-time Government servant should not ordinarily be allowed any part-time employment — whether under Government or elsewhere — even if such employment is after office hours. It may impair efficiency and deprive unemployed persons of employment. In rare cases where permission is proposed, prior sanction of Government must be obtained.

• ⛔No Government servant should negotiate for commercial employment without obtaining the prior permission of the Head of Department (or the Ministry/Department for Group A officers).
• ⚠️Such permission should not be given unless there are special reasons for doing so. (A GS is under an obligation to devote his energies whole-heartedly to official duties and must not use his official position to further his interest in securing commercial employment.)

• ⛔Canvassing by a GS in support of insurance agency, commission agency etc. owned or managed by his wife or any other member of his family is a breach of Rule 15(1)(d) — even if the business is in the family member's name.
• ⛔The same prohibition applies to canvassing for the business of an advertising agency owned or managed by a family member. No canvassing for such business without prior sanction of Government.

• ✅Shramdan: Participation in Shramdan activities organised by Government departments or the Bharat Sewak Samaj in spare time is not only unobjectionable but desirable — subject to official duties not being interfered with. This does not apply to activities organised by private organisations.
• ✅Civil Defence Service: Government servants may be permitted to join as volunteers. If emergency duties are required during office hours, absence shall be treated as special casual leave. They may receive Civil Defence allowances in addition to civil pay. Key-post holders who cannot be released during an emergency may be excepted.
• ✅St. John Ambulance Brigade: GS may be permitted to enroll as members. Absence during training during office hours — as casual leave (to the extent due) and special casual leave (to the extent casual leave is not due). For special Brigade duties (e.g., first-aid at fairs) — up to 3 days' special casual leave per annum.

• ✅AIR Broadcasts: Broadcasts of a purely literary, artistic or scientific character do not require prior sanction. The onus to ensure the character of the broadcast rests on the GS. Where no sanction is required for the broadcast, no permission is required to receive the honorarium either. Where sanction to broadcast is given, it automatically carries sanction to receive the honorarium.
• ✅Examinership: Offers of examinership (evaluation of answer books for recognized Universities) are generally of a casual nature occurring once or twice a year — no serious objection to granting permission in such cases.

• ⚠️Permission to undertake medical practice should be granted only to those holding recognised qualifications in any system of medicine and registered under the relevant law in the State/UT concerned.
• ✅Head of Department may grant permission provided the practice is: (a) during spare time; (b) on a purely charitable basis; (c) without detriment to official duties.

• ⛔Category (i) — Primarily to promote business/products: GS must not participate without prior sanction of Government. Participation without prior sanction = violation of Rule 15. (Primary objective is promotion of company's business — competitive spirit among participants is not relevant.)
• ✅Category (ii) — Genuine sports/games competitions sponsored by companies: The competition itself is in the forefront, not the sponsors — no previous sanction required for such participation.

• ⚠️Rule 15(1)(c): Holding an elective office in any body (incorporated or not) requires previous sanction of Government. There is no absolute bar — sanction can be granted. Administrative authority must satisfy itself that holding the office will not interfere with official duties.
• ✅Rule 15(2)(d) & (e): Registration, promotion or management — not involving holding of elective office — of a literary/scientific/charitable society, club (sports/cultural/recreational), or a GS co-operative society, does not require prior sanction, but requires report within one month and must not affect official duties.
• ℹ️Requests for permission must also be examined in light of the relevant Act and bye-laws governing the society — including restrictions on tenure and number of terms.

• ⛔No GS should be allowed to hold elective office in any sports association/federation for a term of more than 4 years, or one term — whichever is less.
• ⛔While seeking or supporting candidature for election to sports bodies, a GS must not indulge in conduct unbecoming of a Government servant.
• ⛔A GS must refrain from raising funds or collections from official or non-official sources for the promotion of sports at any level.
• ⛔Foreign travel in connection with any sports federation/association: Prior clearance from Government of India required. The source of funding (travel, hospitality, other expenses) must be stated. When permitted, the GS must avail of leave due and admissible.

• ⚖️Where a GS is found guilty of letting out Government residential accommodation, the Directorate of Estates will intimate the administrative authority of the details and action taken under the Allotment Rules. The disciplinary authority shall take suitable departmental action on grounds of unbecoming conduct under Rule 3(1)(iii) of CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
• ⚖️Supreme Court Direction (1997): As soon as allotment is cancelled by the Directorate of Estates on the ground of sub-letting, the disciplinary authority shall initiate disciplinary proceedings under Rule 14 of the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965. The findings of the Directorate of Estates shall be binding on the disciplinary authority for this purpose. The competent authority may consider placing the delinquent GS under suspension.
• ⚠️Charge sheets should be issued immediately in cases where persons are likely to retire shortly or cases that may become time-barred (misconduct more than 4 years old).

• 🔒Wherever any rule stipulates obtaining prior permission from Government, such sanction must invariably be obtained before making any move.
• ⛔Requests for ex-post-facto sanction are to be severely discouraged. Entering transactions first and seeking approval afterwards defeats the purpose of the rules entirely.
• 📢Ministries are requested to impress upon Government servants the need to strictly adhere to the provisions and obtain prior sanction wherever necessary.
• ℹ️These instructions apply, mutatis mutandis, to all other rules requiring previous knowledge, consent or sanction of the prescribed authority.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/25/61-Estt.(A), dated 26.06.1961

• ⛔Where a Government servant stands surety for loans taken by his official superior or the superior's relatives or friends, it creates an impression that official pressure has been exerted.
• ⛔The superior officer places himself under obligation to the subordinate — not conducive to efficient office management or discipline.
• 📢Decision: All officers should be advised not to approach their subordinates for standing surety for loans taken from private sources — whether for themselves, their relatives or their friends.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/5/66-Ests.(A), dated 25.05.1966

• ⛔Government servants should not purchase shares out of quotas reserved for friends and associates of Directors of Companies.
• ℹ️Rule 16(2) makes it clear a Government servant must be circumspect in making investments. Such a purchase is likely to embarrass him in the discharge of official duties.

Source: Deptt. of Personnel No. 25/9/72-Ests.(A), dated 18.09.1976

• ✅Public Limited Companies: Fixed deposits are covered by the saving clause in Rule 16(4) as these companies are authorised to accept public deposits. However, if the amount exceeds monetary limits under Rule 18(3), a report to the prescribed authority is necessary.
• ⛔Private Limited Companies & Firms: Deposits are in the nature of loans and must be regulated under Rule 16(4).
• ✅Banks: Fixed deposits with banks are exempted from Rule 16(4). However, if monetary limits under Rule 18(3) are exceeded, a report to the prescribed authority is still required.

Source: D.P. & A.R.'s OM No. 11013/5/81-Estt.(A), dated 12.05.1982

• 📩Reports under Rule 17 should be submitted by the GS to his immediate superior.
• 🔄The immediate superior shall forward the report through normal channels to the authority competent to remove or dismiss the GS from service.
• 🏛️The competent authority shall consider the report and pass appropriate orders — unless it requires guidance or clarification from a higher authority.
• ⚖️If any penalty is to be imposed, the procedure prescribed in the CCS (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules must be followed.

Source: MHA O.M. No. 25/40/55-Ests.(A), dated 22.02.1956

• 📅Returns of immovable property shall be submitted in the prescribed form to the prescribed authority within one month of appointment and subsequently in the month of January every year. The initial return shows position as on date of appointment; subsequent returns as on 1st January of the submission year.
• 🔒Returns shall be treated as secret documents — kept in custody of the authority maintaining the Character Roll, but not filed in the Character Roll itself.
• 🔍For CSS and Central Secretariat Stenographers' Service: No regular and continuous scrutiny needed — returns need be scrutinised only if there is ground for suspicion in a particular case.
• 📋Group A and B Officers must submit annual returns of immovable property by 31st January of the next year. Failure to submit in time or furnishing wrong information can attract disciplinary proceedings.
• 🔄Comprehensive Return of Assets & Liabilities (including movable property): Prescribed by Order dated 6th January 1973. First return as on 31st December 1972; subsequent returns every 5 years as on 31st December, submitted by 31st March of the next year. Action under this order was held in abeyance in July 1973 pending review.

• 🏗️House Building = Acquisition of Immovable Property: Construction of a house clearly attracts Rule 18(2). A GS must report to, or seek permission from, the prescribed authority before commencing construction or any addition to any building.
• 📋Two-Stage Reporting for House Construction: Before starting — report/seek permission in Form I. After completion — report in Form II.
• 📋Report After Acquisition: If sanction already specifies full details and amount, a further report is not necessary. If details were not furnished at sanction stage, a full report must be made after acquisition. Property must in any case figure in subsequent annual returns.
• 🎯Four Principles for Scrutiny of Immovable Property Transactions:
  • 📌Transaction is for bona fide purposes.
  • 📌Acquisition/sale is at fair prevailing market prices — no profiteering or speculation.
  • 📌No reasonable ground to hold that the transaction resulted from undue official influence.
  • 📌Nothing otherwise objectionable in relation to the proposed transaction.

• 📋Whenever a GS wishes to build a house: Report/seek permission in Form I before construction; report in Form II after completion.
• 📋Forms I and II should include a column for "source of finance" with full details.
• 📋All requests for prior sanction/intimation for immovable property transactions should be made in standard Form I; for movable property in Form II. (These are separate from the house construction forms.)
• 🔧Repairs and Minor Construction: Intimation to prescribed authority is necessary only if the estimated expenditure exceeds ₹10,000. However, if the transaction for materials or contract is with a person having official dealings, prior sanction is required regardless of amount.

• 🔒Prior permission must be obtained before making any move. Ex-post-facto sanction to be severely discouraged — see GoI Decision 1 under Rule 16.
• ⏱️Time Limits for Granting Permission:
  • 📌Under Rules 8(2), 13(4), 18(2), 18(3) and 18-A — 30 days from date of receipt of request.
  • 📌Under Rule 19(1) — 6 weeks.
• ✅If the competent authority fails to communicate its decision within the time limit, the GS shall be free to assume that permission has been granted.

• ⚠️Acquisition or disposal of immovable property through Power of Attorney effects a de-facto transfer of possession and will attract the provisions of Rule 18(2).
• 📋Prior knowledge or sanction (as applicable) of the prescribed authority must be obtained even when the transaction is carried out through a Power of Attorney holder.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/9/98-Estt.(A), dated 29.12.1998 (in consultation with Ministry of Law)

• 🏘️"On Account" Payments to Co-operative House-Building Societies for purchase, development etc. of land are to be treated as transactions in movable property.
• 🚗Sale of Car Purchased on Government Advance: Requires two separate sanctions — one under the General Financial Rules and one under Rule 18(3) of the Conduct Rules (when sold otherwise than through a regular or reputed dealer or agent). GS advised to obtain GFR sanction first, then Conduct Rules sanction.
• 🛒Single Transaction Rule: All purchases made at the same time, same place, and charged on the same bill shall be treated as one transaction — whether or not they relate to the same item.

• 📋In addition to the normal Rule 18(3) intimation per transaction, an intimation in the prescribed proforma shall be sent if cumulative transactions during the calendar year exceed:

• ✅Transactions from GS's own funds — irrespective of the person in whose name made — are strictly governed by Rule 18 (prior knowledge/sanction for immovable; report within one month for movable).
• ✅Transactions from family member's own funds (including stridhan, gifts, inheritance) — made in the family member's own name and own right — do NOT attract sub-rules (2) and (3) of Rule 18.
• ⚠️Transfer to family member: A GS who transfers immovable property or movable property exceeding ₹10,000 to a family member must report or obtain sanction under Rule 18.
• ℹ️Hindu Undivided Joint Family: Transactions as members of an HUF do not require Government's prior permission. Immovable property transactions should be included in annual returns; movable property transactions reported immediately after completion.
• 📌These instructions are to be implemented liberally to avoid unnecessary probe into private affairs — but suspicious circumstances must be investigated with firmness and speed.

• 💰Chit Funds: Subscriptions to a chit fund are transactions in movable property. If annual subscription exceeds the monetary limit under Rule 18(3), a report to the prescribed authority is needed. Prior sanction needed only if the GS has official dealings with the chit fund and it is not a registered chit fund company. Amount received by bid (before maturity) = loan from chit fund company → regulated under Rule 16(4).
• 🛡️Life Insurance Policies: No prior permission required. Report to prescribed authority is needed only if the annual premium exceeds two months' basic pay. When the sum assured is received as survival benefit or on maturity, no report is necessary.
• 🏦Fixed Deposits with Banks: Exempted from Rule 18(3). Fixed Deposits with public limited companies are covered by the saving clause in Rule 16(4) but report under Rule 18(3) is needed if the amount exceeds the monetary limit. Fixed Deposits with private limited companies/firms = loans → regulated under Rule 16(4). Day-to-day Savings Bank or Post Office transactions do not come within the purview of Rule 18(3).

• 🏛️For Group A officers serving in more than one Ministry, the Ministry administratively concerned with the post or service acts as the prescribed authority. For CSS (controlled by Home Ministry), the Ministry of Home Affairs is the prescribed authority for Rule 18 purposes.
• ✅Heads of Departments have been declared as prescribed authorities for Group A officers serving under their control for the purposes of sub-rules (2) and (3) of Rule 18 — subject to: (a) HoD cannot exercise these powers in relation to themselves; (b) all sanctions accorded by HoD must be reported to the Central Government or CAG.

• ⛔Government servants should not bid at auctions arranged by their own Ministries or Departments — even if the transaction is free of any dishonesty, the appearance of impropriety is unavoidable.
• ⚠️Any Government servant who does so would be regarded as indulging in conduct unbecoming of a Government servant within the meaning of the Conduct Rules.

• ⚠️Letting out premises constitutes a transaction in immovable property under Rule 18(2). Prior knowledge/sanction of prescribed authority is required — prior sanction is necessary if the tenant has official dealings with the GS.
• ⛔Appropriate authorities should refrain from sanctioning acceptance of substantial advance rent if this would violate the Delhi Rent Control Act or applicable State Rent Control Act provisions.

• ⚖️A presumption of corruption fairly arises against an officer who cannot account for large accretion of wealth which he could not possibly have saved from his known sources of income.
• 📋This principle has statutory recognition under Section 5(3) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947 and has been upheld by the Supreme Court.
• 📢In departmental inquiries against officers charged with corruption with disproportionate assets, the Presenting Officer must bring this legal position to the notice of the Enquiry Officer.

• 🏛️Sub-rule (4) of Rule 18 expressly empowers the Government or the prescribed authority to require any GS to furnish a full statement of movable or immovable property at any time — including details of the means or source from which such property was acquired. This is in addition to the periodic returns.

• 📢It shall be the duty of a Government servant who is convicted in a criminal court to inform his official superiors of the fact of conviction and the circumstances connected therewith, as soon as it is possible for him to do so.
• ⛔Failure to inform official superiors will be regarded as suppression of material information and will render him liable to disciplinary action on this ground alone — apart from any penalty for the offence itself.
• ℹ️Dismissal on the basis of conviction is not automatic — each case must be examined on its merits. Penalty shall be imposed only where the charges show moral turpitude or grave misconduct likely to render further retention undesirable or contrary to public interest.

• 🎯Government servants seeking redress of grievances arising out of their employment or conditions of service should, in their own interest and in keeping with official propriety and discipline, first exhaust the normal official channels of redress before taking the issue to a court of law.
• ✅Where permission to sue the Government in a court of law is asked for — whether before or after exhausting official channels — the GS may be informed that such permission is not necessary.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/3/59-Ests.(A), dated 21.04.1959

• 🔍Step 1 — Preliminary Enquiry: When allegations are made in the Press or by individuals against a GS in respect of his official conduct, a preliminary confidential enquiry by a senior officer shall be ordered by Government.
• 📋Step 2 — If allegations are found to be unfounded (based on ignorance, insufficient information or malice): Government shall consider whether action in a Court of Law is necessary to vindicate the GS, or whether publication of the enquiry results is sufficient.
• 📋Step 3 — If allegations have reasonable basis or enquiry is inconclusive: Government may —
  • 🔴Entrust the case to the Special Police Establishment for investigation; or
  • 🔴Order a full departmental enquiry under CCS (CCA) Rules; or
  • 🔴Require the officer to vindicate his conduct in a Court of Law.
• 🏛️Criminal Proceedings by Government: Section 198B of the CrPC permits the complaint to be filed within six months of the alleged offence by the Public Prosecutor directly in a Court of Sessions with the previous sanction of the Government.
• 🏛️The appropriate authority for decision in each case is the administrative Ministry concerned, which will consult the Finance and Law Ministries where necessary.

• ⛔(a) Proceedings by Government against GS: Government will not give any assistance to a GS for his defence in civil or criminal proceedings instituted against him by the State. However, if proceedings conclude in the GS's favour, Government will consider reimbursement of defence costs if the GS was subjected to proceedings without proper justification.
• ⛔(b) Proceedings unconnected with official duties: Government will not give any assistance nor reimburse expenses for proceedings not arising out of official duties or position — whether instituted by a private party or by the GS.
• ✅(c) Proceedings by a private party against GS (official matters):
  • 📌If in public interest, Government may undertake the defence of the GS (with GS's agreement in writing via Annexure A).
  • 📌If GS conducts own defence — Government may consider reimbursement of reasonable costs if proceedings conclude in his favour. Court's vindication of the GS's acts (not mere victory) determines extent of reimbursement.
  • 📌An interest-free advance of up to ₹500 or 3 months' substantive pay (whichever is greater) may be sanctioned (on execution of Bond — Annexure B). An advance from Provident Fund (not exceeding 3 months' pay or half the balance, whichever is less) may also be granted.
• ✅(d) GS required by Government to vindicate official conduct: Reimbursement considered in light of result. Government may sanction an interest-free advance in suitable instalments on execution of Bond (Annexure B).
• ✅(e) GS proceeding suo moto with prior sanction: No ordinary entitlement to assistance. Government may in deserving cases sanction advance as in (c)(ii) — but no part of the expenses will be reimbursed even if the GS succeeds.

Source: MHA OM No. F-45/5/53-Ests.(A), dated 08.01.1959

• ℹ️Vicarious Liability Cases: Where a GS is sued for damages for negligence in discharge of civil duties and Government is impleaded on ground of vicarious liability, Government should arrange common defence for the GS also — provided defences are substantially the same and there is no conflict of interest (examined in consultation with Law Officers).
• 📋Recovery of Advance: In not more than 24 equal monthly instalments, commencing from the first issue of pay/leave salary/subsistence allowance following the month of draw. The advance must be recovered before the date of retirement.
• ℹ️If more than one advance is granted (for different proceedings), recovery of all such advances shall run concurrently. No second advance for the same proceedings is admissible.
• ℹ️Where the advance is sanctioned to a temporary/quasi-permanent GS, a surety bond from a permanent Central Government servant of equivalent or higher status must be furnished.
• 🏛️The Administrative Ministry concerned (or the CAG for Indian Audit and Accounts Department staff) is the authority competent to sanction advances.

Source: MHA OM No. 45/1/61-Ests.(A), dated 26.11.1963

• ✅The provisions of paragraph 2(c) of Decision 4 regarding legal assistance shall be extended to retired Government servants against whom proceedings are instituted by a private party in respect of matters connected with their official duties or position before retirement.
• ⛔Does not apply to those who have been compulsorily retired as a punishment.
• ⛔Provision regarding advance from Provident Fund is not applicable to retired GS.
• ℹ️The maximum interest-free advance to a retired GS is subject to a ceiling of ₹500.

Source: DOPT OM No. 28022/1/75-Ests.(A), dated 20.01.1977

• ⛔The suggestion that individual GS (or unions/associations) should be allowed to go to the Press to vindicate their position without prior permission was not accepted.
• ✅Where, on enquiry, adverse criticism in the Press against a GS is found to be based on ignorance, insufficient information or malice, Government should take significant and positive steps to vindicate the GS — the provisions of Decision 3 (para 3) should be invoked.

Source: DP&AR OM No. 11013/21/76-Estt.(A), dated 24.02.1977

• ✅Where it is in the public interest to defend a GS against whom a case is filed by another Government employee in respect of matters connected with the former's official duties or position, the filing Government employee may be treated as a "private party" — and assistance given under paragraph 2(c) of Decision 4.
• ⛔This does not apply to cases where a Government employee has been impleaded as a co-respondent by another Government employee in service-related suits (e.g., seniority) against the Government.

Source: DOPT OM No. 28020/1/78-Ests.(A), dated 06.10.1978

• ⛔Representations on service matters submitted by relatives of a Government servant should receive no notice. This practice — often used to revive rejected representations or bypass official channels — is undesirable and should be strongly discouraged.
• ✅Only exception: Cases where the GS is unable to submit the representation himself due to death or physical disability.

Source: MHA OM No. F25/21/63-Ests.(A), dated 19.09.1963

• ⛔Government servants approaching the Directorate of Estates for out-of-turn allotment of residential accommodation or departure from allotment rules through Members of Parliament, politicians or prominent persons constitutes a violation of Rule 20.
• ℹ️Since Government accommodation is allotted only because of service under Government, such canvassing is a service matter covered by the rule.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/6/90-Estt.(A), dated 30.03.1990

• 1️⃣First Violation: The appropriate disciplinary authority should advise the GS to desist from approaching MPs/MLAs. A copy of this advice need not be placed in the CR dossier.
• 2️⃣Second Violation: A written warning shall be issued by the appropriate disciplinary authority and a copy placed in the CR dossier.
• 3️⃣Third / Subsequent Violation: Disciplinary action shall be initiated under the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/12/94-Estt.(A), dated 12.01.1995

• ⚠️Bringing of indirect outside influence by a Government servant to further his service interests also attracts the provisions of Rule 20 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
• 📢All Ministries/Departments are to bring existing instructions to the notice of all concerned and take effective action against violators as prescribed in the OM dated 12.01.1995.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/11/97-Estt.(A), dated 06.11.1997

• 📋A GS wishing to press a claim or seek redress must address his immediate official superior or Head of Office or the lowest level authority competent to deal with the matter.
• ⛔An appeal/representation to a higher authority must not be made unless the appropriate lower authority has already rejected the claim, refused relief, or unduly delayed disposal.
• ⛔Representations to the President, Government or Minister must be submitted through proper channel. Sending copies to outside authorities (MPs, other Ministers, Secretaries) is contrary to official propriety and subversive of good discipline.
• ⚠️Bypassing prescribed channels directly to the Minister, Prime Minister, etc. may be treated as unbecoming conduct attracting Rule 3(1)(iii) and appropriate disciplinary action should be taken.

Source: DOPT OM No. 11013/7/99-Estt.(A), dated 01.11.1999

• ⏱️A representation requiring examination only in a Ministry/Department: Maximum six weeks.
• ⏱️A representation requiring inter-departmental consultation: Normally within a maximum of three months.
• 📋The final reply must be self-contained, cover all points raised and, where the representation is rejected, clearly indicate the grounds of rejection.

Source: DOPT OM No. 28034/6/2002-Estt.(A), dated 11.01.2002

• 📋Before referring a case to the Home Ministry for advice, the Ministry/Department concerned must conduct a preliminary enquiry on the following points:

• 📌Is the proposed marriage permissible under the personal law applicable to the applicant?
• 📌Are the alleged grounds for the request true and well-founded?
• 📌If the first wife has consented — is the consent genuine and of her own free will? (Interview of applicant and wife may be conducted by senior officers.)
• 📌If grounds relate to wife's sickness — obtain as much information as possible from medical authorities.
• 📌Are the maintenance arrangements for the first wife satisfactory?

Source: MHA OM No. 219/51-Ests., dated 16.02.1955

• ⛔The rule has been amended to include: "No female Government servant shall marry any person who has a wife living without first obtaining the permission of Government."
• 📋This principle shall also govern recruitment — a provision should be added in recruitment rules that no female candidate who has married a person having already a wife living shall be eligible for recruitment, unless Government specially exempts her.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/5/55-Ests., dated 31.05.1956

• 📋A declaration in the prescribed form must be obtained from every new entrant to Government service (both sexes) indicating their marital status — whether unmarried/widowed, married with one spouse, or having married a person with a spouse living.
• ⚠️If a declaration in the negative is later found to be incorrect, the GS is liable to be dismissed from service.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/52/57-Ests.(A), dated 02.01.1958

• ⚠️Even a marriage which is legally null and void by reason of a spouse living at the time of marriage still disqualifies the person for appointment to Government service.
• 📋Recruitment rules should be amended to expressly provide that:

• 📌Male: No person having more than one wife living, or who contracts a void marriage during the lifetime of a spouse, is eligible for appointment.
• 📌Female: No woman whose marriage is void by reason of the husband having a wife living, or who has married a man who has a wife living, is eligible for appointment.
• ✅The Central Government may, if satisfied that there are special grounds, exempt any person from the operation of these provisions.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/35/60-Ests.(A), dated 09.12.1960

• ⚠️Club (members-only with guest access): Is a public place — both for non-member guests and for member Government servants. Consumption of intoxicating drinks there attracts Rule 22.
• ✅Hotel lodging room: Drinking in a lodging room in a hotel does not attract Rule 22 — it is private.
• ⛔Hotel bar or restaurant (open to public): Drinking there does attract Rule 22.

Source: DP&AR Letter No. 11013/16/74-Estt.(A), dated 30.10.1976

• ⛔In partial modification of Decision 1, it has been decided that Government servants should refrain from consuming intoxicating drinks even at official parties arranged by Foreign Missions — whether within Mission premises or in exclusively reserved halls/lounges.
• ⛔The same position applies to parties arranged by Government or semi-Government organisations where foreigners are entertained, or similar parties hosted by others.

Source: MHA DP&AR OM No. 11013/10/77-Estt.(A), dated 07.12.1977

• 📋Every Government servant shall scrupulously adhere to the provisions of Rule 22. Violation constitutes good and sufficient reason for disciplinary action.
• 🔍Disciplinary authorities shall keep a strict watch on the conduct of Government servants regarding matters covered by Rule 22.
• ⚖️Disciplinary authorities shall take a very serious view of any violation and shall not hesitate to impose the severest punishment on Government servants proved guilty of violating Rule 22.

• ✅Where the Central Government is satisfied that the operation of any rule regulating conditions of service of Union Government servants causes undue hardship in any particular case, it may, by order, dispense with or relax the requirements of that rule to such extent and subject to such conditions as it may consider necessary — for dealing with the case in a just and equitable manner.

Source: MHA Notification No. 108/54-Ests.(A), dated 20.11.1954

• ℹ️The power to relax rules derives from the principle that the authority competent to make rules is also competent to amend or interpret them. It is not a new power but codification of what was assumed to prevail under the Government of India Act, 1935 (Section 241(5)).
• ⚠️This power is intended to be invoked only in rare and exceptional cases. Before an order of relaxation is passed:

• 📌The Ministry which made the rule proposed to be relaxed must be consulted.
• 📌Other relevant Ministries (MHA and/or Ministry of Finance) must be consulted as may be appropriate.
• 📌Any existing rules of business or procedure of the GoI Secretariat having a bearing on the subject must be complied with.
• 📌The reasons for relaxation must be placed on record on the appropriate file — but should not form part of the formal order itself.
• 📌The order must be authenticated as an order of the President in accordance with Article 77 of the Constitution.

Source: MHA OM No. 180/54-Ests.(A), dated 25.03.1955

• ✅Powers under Rule 8(2), Rule 13, Rule 16(4)(ii) and Rule 18(2)&(3) delegated to the Chief Administrative Officer, Ministry of Defence and specified Assistant Chief Administrative Officers / Director of Civilian Personnel / Deputy Director of Personnel (Civilians) in respect of Class II, III & IV civilian personnel in Armed Forces HQ and Inter-Service Organisations.

Source: MHA Order No. 25/19/66-Ests.(A), dated 18.05.1965

• ✅Powers under Rule 18(2) and (3) delegated to the Director General of Technical Development in respect of Class I Officers serving under his control — subject to reporting all sanctions accorded to the Central Government.

Source: MHA OM No. 25/25/65-Ests.(A), dated 08.06.1965

• ✅Powers under Rule 8(2), 10, 13, 14, 15(1)–(3), 19(2) (for Class II/III/IV Central civil post holders) and Rule 4(2) and Rule 18 Explanation 2(a)(i) (for Class I officers in UTs, excluding Central Civil Service Class I officers and deputationists) delegated to the Administrators of specified Union Territories (Andaman & Nicobar, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Delhi, Goa-Daman-Diu, HP, Laccadive Islands, Manipur and Tripura).
• ✅Powers under Rule 8(1) and Rule 16(4) also delegated to UT Administrators for Class II/III/IV central civil post holders.

• ✅Powers under Rule 13(4) (foreign dignitary gifts) and Rule 16(4)(i) delegated to Heads of Departments in respect of Class II, III and IV Government servants under their control.

Source: MHA Order No. 25/30(i)/65-Ests.(A), dated 06.10.1965

• ℹ️For a GS on Foreign Service or deputation to another Ministry/Government — the prescribed authority is the appropriate authority in his parent Ministry or Department.

• ✅Powers under Rule 18(2) and (3) also exercisable by Heads of Department in respect of Class I (Group A) officers serving under their control — subject to reporting all sanctions to Central Government (or Comptroller & Auditor General for IA&AS). Powers in relation to the Heads of Department themselves continue to vest with the Central Government/CAG.

Source: MHA Notification No. 25/11/68-Ests.(A), dated 05.08.1968

• ✅In respect of services not controlled by MHA: Powers under Conduct Rules have already been delegated to Heads of Departments and Heads of Office for Group B/C/D. For Group A and non-delegated powers, the Administrative Ministries themselves should exercise the powers — no reference to MHA is necessary unless there is doubt about interpretation.
• ✅In respect of services controlled by MHA (All India Services, CSS, Industrial Management Pool): Day-to-day administration can be left to the different Ministries/Departments. No reference to MHA required — except for annual returns of immovable property, which must continue to be sent to MHA.
• ⚠️Exception (Decision 9): Cases relating to retired officers of All India Services and CSS officers of rank of Under Secretary and above seeking permission for commercial employment (post-retirement) must be referred to MHA for decision.

• ⛔No Government servant should apply for or seek emigration to any other country so long as he is in Government service. The question of issuing a "No Objection Certificate" for emigration does not arise.

Source: DOPT OM No. 28034/34/86-Estt.(A), dated 14.07.1988

• ⚠️Whenever a Court passes an order against GoI instructions on service matters, the administrative Ministry/Department/Office shall consult the Department of Legal Affairs and the Department of Personnel and Training on the question of filing an appeal — well in time (before the time limit in the order or before the limitation period for appeal).
• ⛔No such Court order shall be implemented without first referring the matter to the Department of Legal Affairs for advice and to DoPT.

Source: DOPT OM No. 28027/9/99-Estt.(A), dated 01.05.2000