Reel controversy in Thiruvalla Municipality office, M B Rajesh blocks action against employees

Thiruvananthapuram: M B Rajesh, the Minister for Local Self Government Department in Kerala, has asked not to take action against the employees of the Thiruvalla Municipality office, who had sparked off a new controversy, by shooting a video content for their Instagram. The video was taken inside the office building during the working hours. 

With online debates raging over the incident, the Kerala Minister, through a Facebook post, revealed that the employees had apparently shot the video while working for additional hours on Sunday. 

Earlier, when the video surfaced online, the Secretary of the Municipality had issued show cause notices to the employees who had featured in the reel, citing violation of rules. An explanation was sought from them within three days. In response, the individuals said that they had shot the video while working extra hours on a holiday. While a section of netizens came in support of the employees, the other group yearned for action against them.

Mathrubhumi English is now on WhatsApp; Join the channel

“The government has always appreciated the innate talents of its employees, and has by all means remained supportive in promoting and bolstering their creative sides. But special care shall be taken to ensure that such activities never prove a hindrance in discharging official duties, it shall never become an inconvenience for the public, “ M B Rajesh said in his Facebook post.

After the events at the Thiruvalla Municipality turned controversial, the Minister advised the officials concerned to not to initiate action against those involved for the time being. He instead appreciated their dedication, hailing their willingness to come to office even on a holiday for doing their work. However, the Minister at the same time, warned against any sort of indiscipline or laxity on the side of the employees.