Govt issues advisory
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, July 04 2025: Reiterating the need to uphold the confidentiality of official documents, notings or files, the State Government has issued an advisory against violation of official secrets by individuals under Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964 and Official Secrets Act, 1923 .

The advisory comes following instances where Govt 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 Secretariat, General Administration Department has cautioned that referencing, excerpting, or retaining copies, either in part or whole is not only improper but 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 Govt servants found in violation of the said Act and Conduct Rules can be subject to penalties under relevant disciplinary rules, based on the facts and circumstances of each case.

It also urged all employees under the State Government including those in PSUs, autonomous bodies, boards, societies, agencies, commissions, companies, universities and aided bodies against unauthorised access, retention, or use of such documents in any form.

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