A directive that barred healthcare workers from using social media platforms was revoked following widespread protests and objections from medical professionals across the state.
People share information that they feel is meaningful to themselves or to the people they know. (Creative Commons)
The Kerala State Directorate of Health Services (DHS) has withdrawn a directive that barred healthcare workers from using social media platforms, following widespread protests and objections from medical professionals across the state.
The decision to rescind the order came after intense backlash from government doctors, who argued that such a directive infringed upon their fundamental right to free speech and expression.
The DHS issued the directive on 13 March, based on the state government’s response to a request by an employee to post messages/videos on social media platforms.
In February, the government responded to the employee, saying social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram might generate income and it would violate certain provisions of the Kerala Government Servant Conduct Rules 1960.
The response further observed that even if permission was granted to post messages/videos it would be difficult to investigate/assess if that person had received additional income, other than from the service. It also expressed apprehensions over various rule violations.
The DHS said the reasons cited in the government response applied to its staff and such requests should be dismissed at the institution or the district level.
The directive, which prohibited doctors from engaging on social media platforms, sparked outrage within the medical community.
Doctors under the banner of the Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) raised concerns that the restriction not only hindered their ability to communicate and share information but also limited their engagement with patients and the public on crucial health issues.
Dr Sunil PK, general secretary of the KGMOA, emphasised the importance of social media in modern healthcare communication.
“Social media platforms have become vital tools for disseminating accurate medical information, raising awareness about health issues, and fostering meaningful discussions,” Dr Sunil stated.
He added that many doctors were using social media responsibly to benefit the patients and the public.
The KGMOA argued that rather than restricting social media usage, efforts should be focused on promoting responsible and ethical conduct online.
As the directive turned controversial and responding to the mounting pressure, the DHS reviewed the situation and decided to revoke the directive. It cited ‘administrative reasons’ for taking such a decision.
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