Labour Ministry Tightens Digital Discipline, Limits Online Activity of Staff
जेठ ५, २०८३ १३:३१
Kathmandu. The Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment has introduced a new code of conduct barring its employees from using social media for personal purposes during office hours, in a move aimed at promoting discipline and professionalism within the ministry and its subordinate bodies.
The code of conduct, approved by Minister Ramjee Yadav on 14 May, places particular emphasis on the responsible use of information technology and social media platforms.
According to clause 4.8 (J), employees of the ministry and its subordinate offices are prohibited from using social media for personal activities through mobile phones or computers during working hours.
The directive further states that even outside office hours, the use of platforms such as Facebook, X, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and TikTok will be restricted if such activity undermines the dignity, credibility, or integrity of government services.
It also prohibits the sharing of audio-visual content or advertisements that could reduce respect for government service, create public confusion, defame employees, or spread unverified or misleading information.
The ministry has further barred employees from expressing grievances or frustrations on mass media or social media platforms, stating that such concerns must be raised through formal channels, such as supervisors or the secretary.
In addition, the code restricts officials from making comments, satire, or remarks that could harm the personal reputation or professional work of others within the institution.
While promoting a technology-friendly work environment, the code also underscores the importance of digital security. It requires strict compliance with measures such as security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing of office IT systems.
Employees are also required to use only official ministry email accounts for official communication, with a clear prohibition on sharing decisions or official information on unauthorized social media channels.
The policy also addresses the use of emerging technologies, stating that employees using artificial intelligence, data analytics, or machine learning must adhere to principles of confidentiality, fairness, and accountability.
The code of conduct applies to all staff working under the ministry, including permanent, contractual, and temporary employees. Monitoring compliance will be the responsibility of the secretary, departmental heads, and office chiefs.
The ministry has warned that violations of the code will result in action under prevailing laws. It has also made it mandatory for employees to sign a written commitment to abide by the code upon joining or transferring, in an effort to ensure more responsible and secure use of information technology within government operations.
पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: जेठ ५, २०८३ १३:३१
