Govt warns against circulating 'secret' documents
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, July 04 2025: The state government has reiterated the need to uphold the confidentiality of official documents, notes, and files, following instances where government servants and others - including former officials and non-official persons - were found quoting or retaining classified materials marked 'Secret' or 'Confidential' in their representations and appeals.

An official memorandum issued by the Manipur Secretariat General Administration Department, cautioned that referring to, excerpting from, or retaining copies - whether in part or in full - is not only improper but also a violation of Rules 8 to 11 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, and Section 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923.The memorandum further emphasised that any individual contravening these provisions is liable to prosecution, and that government servants found in violation of the said Act and Conduct Rules may face penalties under the relevant disciplinary rules, depending on the facts and circumstances of each case.

It strongly urged all employees under the state government-including those in PSUs, autonomous bodies, boards, societies, agencies, commissions, companies, universities, and aided institutions - to refrain from unauthorised access, retention, or use of such documents in any form.

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