Government employees don’t completely lose their freedom of speech, but they are subject to special service rules. With social media, the line between personal opinion and official conduct has become blurry.

Service rules often require employees to:

• Maintain political neutrality in public,
  
• Avoid statements that damage the image of the department or government,
  
• Not share confidential information,
  
• Take care when engaging in public debates or criticism.
  

A harsh or sarcastic tweet, a viral video, or a controversial Facebook post can trigger departmental inquiries. Actions may include warning, adverse entry, transfer, or even more serious penalties depending on the content and impact.

Courts try to balance individual rights with the need for a disciplined civil service. They look at whether the post genuinely harmed public interest or was just harmless expression. Context, intent, repetition, and past record all matter.

For employees, a simple thumb rule works: if you wouldn’t say it on a mic at an official event, think twice before posting it under your real name and designation online.