SKIMS warns officers against unauthorized communications

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Aug 30: The authorities at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, have directed their officers to refrain from direct communications with Government departments, the media, and external agencies, emphasizing that such actions can “undermine” the effectiveness and coherence of institutional operations.
In this regard, necessary instructions have been issued by SKIMS, highlighting that some officials have been communicating directly with other Government departments, the media, and external agencies without prior approval from the Competent Authority.
“These actions are leading to miscommunication, misrepresentation, and uncoordinated efforts, which can undermine the effectiveness and coherence of our institutional operations,” the directives stated.
The directions emphasize that no SKIMS official should directly communicate or correspond with any Government Department, media organization, or external agency without obtaining approval from the Competent Authority.
“All communications from SKIMS shall be routed through the appropriate channels to ensure alignment with institutional policies and objectives,” the directives noted.
The directives, issued by the Additional Director of SKIMS, stated that all employees are expected to adhere to these instructions and cooperate in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of organizational operations.
“Non-compliance with these instructions shall attract disciplinary action as provided under the rules.”
In another communication issued to the officials at SKIMS, adherence to proper protocol for approvals during the operation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has been emphasized.
“It has been observed that some SKIMS officers are handling various matters at their own level without obtaining the necessary approval from the Competent Authority, especially during the period of the Model Code of Conduct across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir,” the communication stated.
The authorities have highlighted that this practice constitutes a serious violation of established protocols and can lead to unintended consequences for the institution, stressing the need for strict adherence to the laid-down norms.
“All SKIMS officers are urged to ensure strict adherence to the approval process during the currency of the Model Code of Conduct. No matter, regardless of its urgency or importance, including the transfer or posting of staff, shall be resolved without obtaining approval from the Competent Authority.”
Failure to comply with these instructions, it added, will be viewed seriously and will attract appropriate disciplinary action as warranted under the rules.