Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar has issued a new government resolution (GR) that has grabbed headlines. The GR instructs government employees to stand up whenever Members of Parliament (MPs) or Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) enter their offices. Released on Thursday, it also directs officials to listen carefully to MPs and MLAs and use polite language during phone conversations.
The GR has been issued to ensure dignified and courteous behaviour towards legislators and parliamentarians. It consolidates all circulars issued between July 27, 2015, and August 20, 2021, providing a single, updated set of comprehensive guidelines.
Strict rules on etiquette and communication
Symbol of respect: Officials must rise from their seats whenever an MP or MLA enters or leaves the office. Employees are expected to treat representatives with full courtesy, listen attentively to their concerns, and provide assistance within the rules.
Phone communication: Officials are required to use polite and respectful language in all communications, especially over the phone.
Accountability and discipline: The guidelines aim to make the administration more accountable and reliable. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action.
Meetings and correspondence deadlines
Meeting schedule: To ensure easy access for representatives, district and regional heads must set aside two hours on the first and third Thursday of every month for meetings with MPs, MLAs and citizens. In urgent cases, representatives may meet officials during office hours.
Correspondence deadlines: Departments must maintain a separate register—physical or digital—for all letters from MPs and MLAs. Officials must respond within 60 days. If a complete response is not possible within this period, they must inform the representative of the delay and outline the steps being taken.
Protocol at official events
The GR mandates that local legislators must be invited to all major district-level programs. Names should be printed correctly, and seating must strictly follow the official order of precedence.
What was the Bhai Virendra case?
The GR comes in the wake of a viral incident in July 2025 involving Bihar RJD MLA Bhai Virendra. A video circulated showing Virendra speaking to Balua Panchayat secretary Sandeep Kumar over the phone. When Virendra introduced himself, the official allegedly refused to recognise him and reportedly used rude and inappropriate language. Angered, Virendra said, ‘I will hit you with my shoe. Don’t you know the protocol?’ The panchayat secretary also resisted, leading to a heated exchange. The audio quickly went viral, highlighting the need for clear and strict guidelines on courteous conduct toward elected representatives.
