The Maharashtra government issued a significant directive on Friday, instructing all state departments and affiliated bodies to treat Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) with the highest level of respect and courtesy. This move is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the framework of good governance, transparency, and administrative efficiency across the state.
Key Directives for Government Officials
In a comprehensive government resolution, the state has laid out specific protocols for interactions with elected representatives. Officials are now required to rise and greet MLAs and MPs when they visit government offices. They must listen attentively to the concerns raised by these dignitaries and provide assistance in strict accordance with existing government rules.
The circular also emphasizes polite and respectful telephone communication with MLAs and MPs. To ensure accountability, every government office must maintain a separate register dedicated to all correspondence received from these legislators. Replies to their communications must be issued within a two-month timeframe.
If a timely reply is not feasible, the matter must be escalated to the head of the department, and the concerned legislator must be formally notified of the delay. Furthermore, department heads are tasked with reviewing all such correspondence every three months to monitor compliance.
Inclusion in Functions and Dedicated Meeting Times
The state government has also mandated the invitation of all relevant dignitaries to major government functions. The list includes central and state ministers, guardian ministers, local MLAs, MPs, mayors, district council presidents, and municipal chairpersons. The circular stresses that proper seating protocols must be observed during these events.
To facilitate smoother communication, department heads must reserve two hours on the first and third Thursday of every month specifically for meetings with MLAs, MPs, and local citizens. However, the order clarifies that urgent matters can be addressed outside these pre-scheduled times.
Ensuring Compliance and Fostering a Culture of Respect
The government has advised avoiding the scheduling of major local-level programs during legislative sessions to ensure optimal focus on parliamentary work, unless such events are unavoidable.
Strict compliance with the recommendations of the legislative privileges committee is emphasized. Failure to adhere to these new guidelines will result in disciplinary proceedings under the existing Maharashtra Civil Services regulations.
In a bid to institutionalize this respectful conduct, the circular requires the inclusion of modules on courteous behavior towards legislators in all government training programs. Additionally, information related to welfare-related legislative duties must be provided free of charge to MLAs and MPs, except where restricted by the Right to Information Act, 2005.
This directive from the Maharashtra government marks a concerted effort to create a more collaborative, respectful, and accountable administrative environment, bridging the gap between elected representatives and the government machinery.
