The Haryana government has issued a circular directing all government officials to stand up while receiving or meeting ministers, MPs and MLAs.
The circular says that the bureaucrats can be penalised if they do not stand up from their seats, it was reported.
The notification issued from the office of the chief secretary stated, “An officer should be meticulously correct and courteous to rise to receive and see off a Member of Parliament/State Legislature visiting him.
Arrangements may be made to receive the Members of Parliament when, after taking prior appointment, they visit the officer of the Government of India, State Government or local government.”
The notification also instructed the officials to promptly respond to any communications from the MPs and MLAs. The order also warns of action against the officials who fail to follow the guidelines.
These guidelines were issued after receiving a reference related to a parliamentary committee report on violation of protocol and disrespectful behaviour of the bureaucrats with lawmakers.