TMC slams gag order on govt employees

A fresh political storm has erupted in West Bengal after Abhishek Banerjee, the General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), launched a sharp attack on the state government over newly issued conduct guidelines for government employees. In a strongly worded social media post, Banerjee criticised the recent directives that bar government employees from speaking to the media, expressing opinions, or sharing official information without authorisation.

Terming the move a “strangulation of democracy,” he alleged that the guidelines are an attempt to silence administrative voices rather than protect institutional integrity.

According to sources in Nabanna, the controversy stems from Circular No. 139-CS issued on May 19 by the office of the Chief Secretary. The circular imposes strict restrictions on employees across all levels—including IAS and WBCS officers, police personnel, and staff of autonomous bodies—regarding any interaction with the media. A follow-up directive issued on May 20 by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms mandated immediate implementation across all departments, divisions, and districts.

Citing these directives, Banerjee expressed strong objections to what he described as the repeated use of the phrase “complete prohibition,” arguing that it signals an extreme and coercive approach rather than routine administrative discipline. He contended that the measures effectively impose a blanket ban on free expression within the bureaucracy.

Targeting both the BJP and the Central government, the TMC leader alleged that West Bengal is being governed through a “remote control” from Delhi. He claimed that under such an arrangement, silence is being institutionalized as a mandatory trait for government employees.

Banerjee further criticised what he described as an administrative “edict,” prohibiting employees from speaking to the media, writing articles, participating in discussions, or voicing criticism of government policies. He argued that these restrictions—imposed under the pretext of maintaining inter-governmental relations—amount to a significant erosion of free speech.

“The message is clear,” Banerjee remarked, “think only as instructed and speak only when permitted,” suggesting that the guidelines demand unquestioning compliance rather than encourage transparency or accountability.

Political analysts note that the development comes amid a broader tightening of administrative control following recent political changes in the state. With Suvendu Adhikari now serving as Chief Minister, the government has introduced several stringent measures aimed at consolidating governance.

Banerjee, however, maintained that such actions reflect intolerance toward criticism. He argued that curbing dissent through restrictive measures is not a sign of strength, but rather an indication of institutional weakness.