In a decisive move to enhance productivity, the Kerala High Court has issued a memorandum strictly banning staff from engaging in online gaming and accessing social media during work hours. The notice, dated December 2, 2024, highlights concerns that such activities have been significantly disrupting daily operations.
The memo, signed by Registrar General Gopakumar G, states, “It has come to notice that many staff members are engaged in playing online games and watching social media content during work hours and break, thereby hampering the day-to-day office work.” To combat this issue, the High Court has laid out clear guidelines, prohibiting all forms of online gaming during office hours and lunch breaks, and restricting the use of social media, watching movies, or online trading to lunch breaks unless required for official purposes.
The memorandum also specifies that any violation of these guidelines will be “viewed very seriously,” signaling a zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance. While the memo applies to the majority of the staff, senior officers who have been provided mobile phones and chauffeurs are exempt, acknowledging their unique responsibilities and the need for constant connectivity in their roles.
