Railway trade unions have voiced concerns over new restrictions placed on social media use by employees during working hours. The Railway Department recently issued a circular outlining a ban aimed at preventing the dissemination of sensitive information to the public. According to the circular, sharing certain types of information has been damaging to the department, prompting the introduction of stricter controls.
Employees have been warned that violations of the directive could result in severe disciplinary action. However, union representatives and staff members are questioning the rationale behind the ban, noting that social media has become a common and convenient method for internal communication and sharing official updates during work hours.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the absence of an alternative communication platform proposed by the authorities. Employees argue that, while the restriction targets inappropriate disclosure, social media currently serves as a primary tool for quick and efficient information exchange among staff, especially in the absence of other official channels.
The Railway Department has yet to clarify how it plans to facilitate internal communication moving forward or whether new systems will be introduced to replace social media use during working hours. Meanwhile, trade unions continue to urge dialogue with management to address the issue, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines that protect sensitive data without hindering operational communication.
