ISLAMABAD: Amid rep­orts of official documents being leaked from the lower house of parliament, the National Assembly Secretariat has warned its employees to stay away from politics and sought details of mobile phones registered in their names.

“Taking serious cognisance of various instances of unlawful and uncalled for attitude of certain employees, the competent authority has strictly directed all employees of the Secretariat to refrain from unauthorised access to official information and leakage of such information to unauthorised quarters; bringing influence for employment-related matters; indulging in political, illegal and unethical activities; glorification of detrimental/irresponsible sentiments through social media platforms; and spreading false information, fake news and fabricated rumours through digital communication to harm reputation of any person/institution or to advance any type of hatred,” said a circular issued by the NA Secretariat on Wednesday.

All in-service and retired employees of the secretariat have been asked to abide by all applicable laws, including service rules. In case of failure, action under the Civil Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 2020, or as the case may be, under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, shall be initiated, the circular warned.

Action taken after ‘official documents’ were ‘leaked’

All employees of the secretariat have also been directed to share with the Data Source Unit in writing within three days all accounts on social media platforms and cellular phone numbers registered on their CNICs.

“Henceforth, the retired employees of the secretariat shall seek permission from the office of secretary general for entry into the Parliament House clearly indicating purpose of their visit,” the circular added.

The NA Secretariat directed the security branch and the directorate of IT to ensure implementation of these instructions.

A source privy to the development said the circular was issued after National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq came to know that some documents were leaked by secretariat employees. The source said it is possible that some employees may face consequences in the coming days for sharing official documents with politicians.

Published in Dawn, July 26th, 2024