All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968

The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 form a crucial component of the framework governing the professional behaviour, integrity, and ethics of officers belonging to the All India Services (AIS)—namely, the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS). These rules provide comprehensive guidelines intended to ensure that officers maintain the highest standards of conduct, impartiality, and devotion to duty while serving the public interest. The 1968 rules replaced earlier codes to align the service ethos with the principles of accountability, neutrality, and integrity enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Background and Context

After India’s independence, it became necessary to establish a uniform code of conduct applicable to all members of the All India Services. Although service rules existed under the All India Services Act, 1951, the growing complexity of administrative responsibilities required a more detailed ethical framework. The 1968 Rules were, therefore, notified by the Government of India under the powers conferred by Section 3(1) of the All India Services Act, 1951, and came into effect on 15 November 1968.
The main objective of these rules was to ensure that members of the AIS uphold constitutional values, maintain political neutrality, avoid conflicts of interest, and behave in a manner befitting their office both in public and private life.

Structure and Scope

The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 consist of several rules and sub-rules defining general standards of behaviour, restrictions on private activities, relations with political entities, and obligations towards government property and resources. The code applies uniformly to all members of the IAS, IPS, and IFS across India, irrespective of their posting or cadre.

Key Provisions of the Rules

The 1968 Rules cover a wide spectrum of ethical and administrative obligations. Some of the key provisions include:

• Rule 3: General ConductThis rule forms the ethical foundation of the service. It mandates that every member of the Service shall:
  • Maintain absolute integrity and devotion to duty.
  • Uphold the dignity of public service.
  • Ensure that actions are not motivated by personal gain or prejudice.
  • Conduct themselves in a manner that upholds public confidence in the impartiality of the service.
• Rule 4: Employment of Family Members and DependentsOfficers must ensure that their family members do not engage in activities that may cause or appear to cause a conflict of interest with official duties. Any such employment or engagement in trade must be disclosed to the government.
• Rule 5: GiftsOfficers are prohibited from accepting gifts from individuals or organisations with whom they have official dealings, except for gifts of a trivial nature such as on ceremonial occasions. Gifts exceeding a prescribed monetary limit must be reported and surrendered to the government.
• Rule 6: Public Demonstrations and StrikesMembers of the Service are barred from participating in, or associating with, demonstrations, strikes, or protests that may hamper government functioning or bring the service into disrepute.
• Rule 7: Connection with Press or RadioWithout prior government permission, officers are restricted from publishing books, writing for the press, or engaging in radio or television broadcasts on political or administrative matters. However, contributions to literary, cultural, or scientific discussions are permitted.
• Rule 8: Criticism of GovernmentOfficers must not make any public statements or communications that criticise government policies or decisions. Constructive suggestions made internally through official channels are, however, allowed.
• Rule 9: Private Trade or EmploymentOfficers are prohibited from engaging directly or indirectly in trade, business, or other employment outside their official duties. Investments in non-speculative ventures are permitted with prior approval.
• Rule 10: Financial ObligationsOfficers are required to maintain financial propriety, avoid indebtedness, and live within their means. They must not engage in speculative investments such as stock trading or betting.
• Rule 11: Subletting and Property TransactionsMembers must obtain prior permission before acquiring or disposing of immovable property, whether in India or abroad, in their own name or in the name of family members.
• Rule 12: Movable PropertyDeclaration of ownership of valuable movable property, such as vehicles or jewellery, is mandatory within a prescribed time frame.
• Rule 13: Gifts to Superiors or SubordinatesOfficers are prohibited from offering gifts or entertainment to their official superiors or subordinates that may influence official decisions or create an appearance of bias.
• Rule 14: Dowry ProhibitionOfficers are expressly forbidden from demanding, giving, or receiving dowry in any form, in accordance with the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.
• Rule 15: Political ActivityMembers of the Service must remain politically neutral. They cannot be members of or take part in the activities of political parties, nor participate in political rallies, election campaigns, or demonstrations.
• Rule 16: Communication with Foreign Nationals and OrganisationsOfficers must report any official or personal dealings with foreign nationals or entities that might affect national interests.
• Rule 17: Misuse of PositionOfficers must not use their official position to secure employment for relatives, obtain undue advantage, or influence administrative decisions improperly.
• Rule 18: Investments and Lending/ BorrowingAny investment, loan, or borrowing by a member of the Service must not lead to a conflict of interest or financial dependence that could compromise official impartiality.

Amendments and Evolving Context

Over the years, the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 have been amended multiple times to reflect changing administrative norms, technological developments, and ethical expectations. Significant amendments include:

• Introduction of provisions on information technology use, regulating social media conduct and online communication.
• Clarifications regarding declaration of assets, especially in the context of anti-corruption and transparency measures under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• Expanded scope of conflict of interest provisions, ensuring greater accountability in public-private partnerships and collaborations.
• Rules on accepting foreign awards or honours, requiring prior sanction from the government.

Objectives and Ethical Principles

The overarching principles guiding the Conduct Rules are founded upon the ideals of the Constitution of India, particularly Article 311 (protection of civil servants) and the Directive Principles of State Policy. The rules aim to promote:

• Integrity and Impartiality: Ensuring decisions are based solely on public interest.
• Accountability: Preventing misuse of public office.
• Transparency: Mandating disclosure of financial interests.
• Political Neutrality: Maintaining distance from partisan politics.
• Service Orientation: Reinforcing the notion of civil servants as instruments of public welfare.

Enforcement and Disciplinary Action

Violations of the Conduct Rules constitute misconduct under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. Disciplinary actions may range from warning or censure to suspension, demotion, or dismissal, depending on the severity of the breach. Investigations are generally conducted by the concerned State Government, Central Government, or the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). In certain cases, inquiries are referred to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for advice before a final decision is made.

Significance

The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 play a vital role in preserving the professional ethos and moral authority of India’s civil services. They ensure that officers remain accountable to the Constitution rather than to transient political or personal interests. The rules are also instrumental in maintaining public trust in governance and the institutional integrity of the administrative system.