From Dress Codes to Digital Discipline: Himachal Govt Tightens Office Norms

Government offices in Himachal Pradesh are set to look and feel more formal. In a bid to restore discipline and professionalism, the state has rolled out strict new rules—employees must now follow a prescribed dress code and tread carefully on social media.

For men, crisp shirts and trousers are the new standard. Women are expected to wear sarees, salwar-kameez, or other modest formal attire. Casual wear like jeans, T-shirts, or flashy outfits will no longer be tolerated in the workplace.

But the changes don’t stop at clothing. The government has also drawn a firm line on digital conduct. Employees are barred from posting personal opinions, criticizing policies, or making political or religious statements online. Sharing confidential documents without permission is now considered a serious offense.

These directives, issued under the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, are meant to safeguard the dignity of government institutions. Department heads have been tasked with ensuring compliance, and violations could invite strict disciplinary action.

For many, the move signals a cultural shift—an effort to remind employees that professionalism extends beyond office walls, into both appearance and online behavior.