KOCHI: The Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) has warned its employees against making public statements or posting messages criticising the government and the establishment without permission from authorities.
A circular brought out by KAU claimed action will be initiated against employees who violate the norms by making public statements through media or social forums without the nod of higher authorities.
The circular issued by the Registrar on July 5, 2018, stated the matter has been raised on the basis of a government circular brought out on January 31, 2018, directing to initiate strict action against those violating the norms stated in the Kerala Subordination Service Rule 60 (A) by expressing their views about government policies and its implementation through media, including social media platform, without permission from the government. The Vice-Chancellor stated the same norms should be followed by professors, staff and employees of KAU as well.
The circular also asked the KAU employees not to use their official emails or office emails IDs for sending abusive messages. Action will be taken if such instances come to the notice.
Pointing out that the university has not introduced any new rules, the KAU spokesman said: “The circular was based on the directive by the state government. Since the government has directed such a matter, we have to pass on the information to our staff and employees,” he said.
Senior Congress leader Benny Behanan said people have lost the freedom to express their opinion. “The circular is against the Constitution which provides every citizen freedom to express their views. So, the circular should be withdrawn immediately. The Agriculture Minister, who is the Pro-Chancellor of KAU, should initiate steps to withdraw the circular,” he said.
As per the section 60(A) of Kerala Subordinate Service Rules, university professors, staff and employees should not criticise government policies and decision through speech or writing.