UP Government Enforces Strict Protocol for Bureaucrats Dealing With MPs, MLAs; Disciplinary Action Warned for Violations
Lucknow: In a major administrative move aimed at improving coordination between the bureaucracy and elected representatives, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued fresh and stringent protocol guidelines for officials interacting with Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and other public representatives across the state.
The new directive, issued by Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal, a senior 1989-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, makes it mandatory for government officials and employees to display proper courtesy and respect while dealing with elected representatives. The order has been circulated to all departments and administrative units across the state and carries a clear warning that violations may result in disciplinary proceedings under the Uttar Pradesh State Employees Conduct Rules.
The instructions come in the wake of repeated complaints from MPs, MLAs, and other public representatives regarding alleged rude, dismissive, or non-cooperative behaviour by officials in government offices. The state government has taken serious note of these complaints and has now decided to enforce protocol norms more strictly.
As per the latest order, officials are required to immediately stand up from their seats when an MP, MLA, or any recognised public representative enters their office. They must greet them respectfully with folded hands and offer drinking water as part of standard official courtesy.
According to the government, such gestures are not merely symbolic but are part of an established administrative culture intended to maintain cordial and respectful relations between the elected leadership and the bureaucracy. The directive notes that despite several earlier instructions issued over the years, complaints regarding protocol violations have continued to surface.
The Chief Secretary’s order reportedly references nearly 15 previous government directives issued on the same matter, indicating persistent dissatisfaction within the administration over the conduct of some officials toward public representatives.
In addition to behavioural protocol, the government has also laid down detailed communication guidelines. Officials have been instructed to respond promptly to phone calls from MPs, MLAs, and other elected representatives. In situations where an official is attending a meeting or is otherwise unable to answer a call, they must send an appropriate message and return the call at the earliest possible opportunity.
The order further directs officials to carefully listen to the grievances, requests, and developmental issues raised by public representatives and ensure their timely and effective resolution. Departments have been told that matters referred by elected representatives should be treated with seriousness, sensitivity, and administrative efficiency.
Importantly, the government has instructed that representatives must also be informed about the action taken on the issues raised by them, thereby improving accountability and communication between administrative officers and elected leaders.
The directive carries a strong warning that any official or employee found violating these instructions may face disciplinary action under the state conduct rules. Senior officials have been asked to ensure strict compliance at every administrative level.
Meanwhile, in a separate administrative review, Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal also chaired a high-level video conference with Divisional Commissioners and District Magistrates regarding preparations for the upcoming National Lok Adalat scheduled across Uttar Pradesh on May 9.
During the review meeting, the Chief Secretary directed all concerned departments to intensify efforts for the disposal of maximum pending cases during the Lok Adalat proceedings. Departments have been instructed to identify suitable cases in advance and appoint nodal officers to coordinate the process efficiently.
Special emphasis has been placed on recovery-related matters involving banks, electricity department compounding cases, and long-pending vehicle challan disputes dating back to December 21, 2021.
Officials have also been directed to ensure timely issuance of notices and summons to concerned parties so that settlements can be completed smoothly and efficiently.
To maximize public participation and awareness regarding the National Lok Adalat, the administration plans to use digital communication platforms extensively. ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers will also be mobilised at the grassroots level to spread awareness among citizens.
The Uttar Pradesh government believes that these coordinated efforts will help improve dispute resolution rates, reduce pendency in courts and departments, and strengthen public confidence in administrative and legal mechanisms across the state.
