Stand & greet MLAs & MPs and listen to what they say: Maharashtra govt to employees
In a recent directive, the Maharashtra government has issued guidelines to its employees, instructing them to “stand and greet” Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) when they visit government or semi-government offices. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of listening carefully to what these elected representatives have to say and using respectful language when interacting with them over the phone.
The move is aimed at promoting a culture of respect and courtesy towards elected representatives, who are responsible for making laws and representing the interests of their constituents. By instructing employees to stand and greet MLAs and MPs, the government is emphasizing the importance of showing deference to these public figures.
The guidelines are applicable to all government and semi-government offices in the state, including district collectorates, tehsil offices, and other public institutions. Employees have been instructed to rise from their seats and greet MLAs and MPs with a smile when they arrive or leave the office. This gesture is intended to show respect and courtesy towards these elected representatives, who are responsible for serving the public interest.
In addition to standing and greeting MLAs and MPs, employees have also been asked to listen carefully to what they have to say. This is an important aspect of the guidelines, as it recognizes the importance of effective communication between government officials and elected representatives. By listening attentively to the concerns and suggestions of MLAs and MPs, employees can gain a better understanding of the needs and priorities of their constituents.
The guidelines also emphasize the importance of using respectful, polite, and courteous language when interacting with MLAs and MPs over the phone. Employees have been instructed to address these elected representatives with honorific titles such as “Hon’ble MLA” or “Hon’ble MP” and to use phrases such as “yes, sir” or “yes, madam” when responding to their queries.
The directive has been welcomed by many as a positive step towards promoting a culture of respect and courtesy in government offices. By instructing employees to stand and greet MLAs and MPs, the government is recognizing the importance of showing deference to these public figures and promoting a positive image of the state’s bureaucracy.
However, some critics have argued that the guidelines are overly formal and may create an atmosphere of subservience among government employees. They argue that employees should be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their position or status, and that the guidelines may perpetuate a culture of hierarchy and deference.
Despite these criticisms, the guidelines are likely to have a positive impact on the way government employees interact with MLAs and MPs. By promoting a culture of respect and courtesy, the government can foster a more positive and collaborative relationship between bureaucrats and elected representatives. This, in turn, can lead to better governance and more effective delivery of public services.
In conclusion, the Maharashtra government’s decision to instruct employees to stand and greet MLAs and MPs is a positive step towards promoting a culture of respect and courtesy in government offices. By listening carefully to what these elected representatives have to say and using respectful language when interacting with them, employees can promote a positive image of the state’s bureaucracy and foster a more collaborative relationship between bureaucrats and elected representatives.
About the Author
