GAD Issues Fresh Circular Emphasising Courtesy, Mutual Respect and Responsible Exercise of Authority Across All Levels of Administration
Srinagar, October 16
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has directed all officers and officials to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct, discipline, courtesy and mutual respect while discharging their official duties.
The General Administration Department (GAD), through Circular No. 24-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued on October 16, has stressed the need for dignified and professional interactions among government employees, including senior officers, subordinate staff and officials of different ranks.
The circular, issued in reference to Rule 3 of the Jammu and Kashmir Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971, states that all public servants are expected to uphold integrity, devotion to duty and discipline, while ensuring that their conduct remains consistent with the dignity of public office.
The government has specifically emphasised that official interactions must be conducted with courtesy, restraint, dignity and mutual respect. These instructions apply equally to interactions between superior officers and their subordinates, officials of different ranks, and subordinate employees and their seniors.
The circular further states that seniority and supervisory authority must be exercised responsibly and fairly. At the same time, government employees are expected to respect lawful directions, established procedures and the responsibilities attached to their respective offices.
The GAD has also directed officials to avoid derogatory, threatening or otherwise inappropriate language, as well as any behaviour inconsistent with the dignity and decorum expected of a public servant.
To ensure compliance, all Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Heads of Departments, Managing Directors and other concerned authorities have been instructed to bring the circular to the notice of employees under their administrative control and ensure strict observance at every level of administration.
The directive reinforces the government’s emphasis on professional discipline, respectful workplace conduct and responsible exercise of administrative authority across government departments.(KNC)