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Code of Conduct
5.1 AIS (Conduct) Rules, 1968
The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 govern the conduct of IAS, IPS, and IFoS officers. For other Central Government employees, the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 apply.
Key provisions of AIS Conduct Rules:
| Rule | Prohibition/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rule 3 | General conduct — no act unbecoming of a government servant |
| Rule 4 | Joining of associations — no membership of communal, caste-based, or political organisations |
| Rule 5 | Demonstrations and strikes — prohibited |
| Rule 6 | Connection with press and social media — no writing on political matters without permission |
| Rule 7 | Criticism of government — no public criticism of government decisions; can express views through proper channels |
| Rule 8 | Evidence before committee — cannot give evidence before committees without government permission |
| Rule 9 | Gifts — Rs 5,000 limit for gifts from official sources; lower for others |
| Rule 11 | Outside employment — cannot hold any employment outside without permission |
| Rule 13 | Movable/immovable property — must report property above specified thresholds; annual property returns |
| Rule 16 | Official communication — cannot directly communicate with foreign governments |
5.2 Code of Ethics vs Code of Conduct
| Aspect | Code of Ethics | Code of Conduct |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Value principles (aspirational) | Specific prohibitions and requirements |
| Examples | Integrity, objectivity, accountability | No gifts over Rs 5,000; annual property returns |
| Enforcement | Internal culture, training | Disciplinary action, inquiry |
| Source | 2nd ARC Draft Code of Ethics (2008) | AIS Conduct Rules, CCS Conduct Rules |
2nd ARC (2005–08) on Ethics:
- Recommended a statutory Code of Ethics for civil servants.
- Proposed a Civil Services Authority (CSA) to handle disciplinary matters independently.
- Emphasized probity in governance — zero tolerance for corruption, declaration of assets, conflict of interest rules.
5.3 Article 311 — Procedural Safeguards Against Dismissal
Article 311 gives civil servants constitutional protection — they cannot be dismissed or removed without:
- An inquiry in which they have been informed of the charges.
- Reasonable opportunity to be heard.
Exceptions (no inquiry needed): (a) Conduct leading to conviction in criminal court; (b) Where holding inquiry is not reasonably practicable; (c) Where the President/Governor certifies that it is not expedient in the interest of State security.