Mokokchung, January 22 (MTNews): Upon noticing that some of the government servants are indulging themselves in political activities and canvassing or campaigning for various political parties or candidates for the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly Election, 2023, the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Shashank Pratap Singh IAS has drawn the attention of all concerned to Rule 24 (1) (2) of the Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968.
The rule debars a Government servant to become a member of or be otherwise associated with any political party or any organization which takes part in political activities/canvassing or otherwise interfere with or use his/her influence in connection with or stand as a candidate, etc.
The said rule also mentioned that a Government servant qualified to vote at such election may exercise his right to vote, but where he does so, he shall give no indication of the manner in which he proposes to vote or has voted.
A Government servant shall not be deemed to have contravened the provision of these rules by reason only that he assists in the conduct of an election in the due performance of a duty imposed on him by or under any law for the time being in force.
The display of any electoral symbol by a Government servant on his person/vehicle/residence shall amount to using his influence in connection with an election within the meaning of these rules.
A Government servant who has reason to believe that attempts are being made to induce him to break the provision of this rule by or on behalf of an official superior or superior shall report the facts to the Chief Secretary to the Government of Nagaland.
Proposing or seconding the nomination of a candidate at an election or acting as a Polling Agent shall be deemed as active participation in the election.
If any question arises about whether any movement or activity falls within the scope of this rule, the decision of the Government thereon shall be final.