Odisha Govt Bans Social Media Reels Inside Secretariat, Warns of Strict Action

Bhubaneswar| 3-01-2026

The Government of Odisha has banned the recording and uploading of social media reels, videos, and photographs inside major Secretariat buildings in Bhubaneswar, citing security and discipline concerns.

In an official order issued by the Home Department on January 3, 2026, the government said it had noticed that some employees and visitors were creating reels and videos inside Secretariat premises and sharing them on social media platforms.

Why Has It Been Denied?

According to the order, buildings such as Lok Seva Bhawan, Rajiv Bhawan, and Kharavel Bhawan are high-security and sensitive government establishments.

The government said making social media content inside these offices:

• Affects official decorum and discipline

• Disrupts the working environment

• Can harm the image and dignity of the government

• May pose security-related risks

For these reasons, recording or uploading any such content has been strictly prohibited.

Whom Does the Ban Apply To?

The order applies to everyone inside the Secretariat premises, including:

• Government employees

• Officers

• Contractual staff

• Visitors

• Any other persons present inside the buildings

No one is allowed to create or share reels, videos, or photos from inside these premises for personal or public use.

What Action Will Be Taken?

The government has warned that any violation will be taken seriously. Those found breaking the rule may face disciplinary and administrative action under existing government rules.

To ensure strict enforcement, the Secretariat’s security wing has been instructed to stop anyone from recording videos or reels inside the premises.

Should the Ban Be Applied to Other Government Offices?

At present, the order applies only to the Secretariat buildings mentioned in the notice. It does not automatically extend to other government offices across the state.

However, officials believe similar restrictions can be justified in other sensitive government offices, especially those handling confidential files, public security matters, or high-level decision-making. Allowing social media reels and videos in such offices could affect discipline, disrupt work, and raise security concerns.

Many government offices already have informal or written rules restricting photography and videography. The Secretariat order may encourage other departments to issue their own guidelines based on the nature of their work.

As of now, district offices, field offices, schools, and colleges are not covered under this order unless separate instructions are issued by the concerned department or authority.