The Delhi government has issued a directive prohibiting the removal of files, documents, and computer hardware from the Delhi Secretariat complex without prior approval.
The notice, released by the General Administration Department (GAD) on Saturday, highlights security concerns as the primary reason behind the decision.
The directive comes on a day when votes for the Delhi Assembly elections are being counted, with early trends suggesting a strong performance by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), according to data from the Election Commission.
The order states that strict measures are necessary to safeguard sensitive government records and ensure that all official documents remain within the Secretariat premises.
It further instructs all department heads and branch in-charges to comply with these guidelines to prevent any unauthorised movement of files or electronic records.
Pradeep Tayal, Joint Secretary of the GAD, has signed the order, making it clear that all officials within various departments and offices in the Secretariat must take responsibility for securing physical and digital records.
The directive also applies to the Secretariat Offices and Camp Offices of the Council of Ministers, requiring their respective in-charges to ensure full compliance.
The move is seen as a precautionary measure to protect government records amid a politically significant period. Officials are expected to strictly adhere to the guidelines to maintain the integrity and security of official documents.