Uttar Pradesh bans violent protestors from state government jobs, announces new rule

The Uttar Pradesh administration issued a directive stating that anyone found to have taken part in violent protests will be barred from securing employment in any state government department. The policy aims to deter public disorder by linking civic behavior to future job prospects. Officials said the rule will be applied across all recruitment processes, including both direct hires and contractual appointments. The government has not disclosed a specific timeline for implementation but indicated that existing recruitment cycles will incorporate the new eligibility criteria. Critics argue that the measure could raise legal and ethical concerns, while supporters claim it reinforces law and order.

The decision was communicated through an official circular circulated among departmental heads. Under the new guidelines, candidates will be required to submit a declaration confirming they have not participated in any violent demonstration in the past five years. Failure to provide such an affirmation, or providing false information, could result in disqualification or revocation of an offer. The state has urged political parties and civil society groups to respect the rule and maintain peaceful protest.

The policy reflects the government's broader effort to curb unrest following a series of clashes in various districts. While the administration emphasizes that the measure targets only those involved in violence, observers note that the definition of "violent protest" remains ambiguous, potentially affecting a wide range of activists.