Kerala government employees face strict disciplinary actions, including suspension, for violating social media conduct guidelines. A notable incident involving the suspension of a school principal from Attingal Government Model Boys Higher Secondary School just two days before his retirement highlights the severe consequences of sharing inappropriate or politically sensitive posts online. Under the Kerala Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1960, public servants must adhere to professional discipline on digital platforms to protect their jobs and post-retirement benefits.

According to Rule 60A and a subsequent 2017 circular, government employees are strictly prohibited from criticizing government policies or leaders on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, which includes sharing critical posts written by others. Additionally, Rule 67 bans employees from showing political alignments, such as sharing election posters or campaigning online. This is crucial as political activities by educators can lead to unwanted polarization among students.

Also read

Old Video of Vijay's Wife Sangeetha and Trisha's Mother Uma Krishnan Sparks Discussion Online Gautam Adani Reclaims Title as Asia's Richest Person, Surpassing Mukesh Ambani and Chinese Tycoons

The regulations also address modern digital monetization and communal harmony. Under Rule 48, employees cannot earn income from personal YouTube channels or Instagram pages through monetization without obtaining prior permission from their respective departments. Furthermore, Rule 67A prohibits employees from holding official posts in religious or communal organizations and strictly bans the sharing of any content that promotes communal hatred or disharmony.