Archive · 27 Jul 2026
ASI restricts officials from press interaction
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has told its officials not to talk to the press without permission.
They must get approval from their bosses or go through the ASI's official spokesperson.
This is because sometimes officials share information about their work, like excavations, before it's ready.
The ASI says this is against the rules and can cause problems.
They want to make sure all information is shared properly and officially.
ASI issued a memo restricting officials from interacting with the press without prior approval.
The memo was approved by ASI Director General Yadubir Singh Rawat.
Officials must route information through the designated Media Spokesperson, Joint Director General Nandini Bhattacharya Sahu.
The memo cites Rule 11 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which prohibits unauthorized communication of official information.
The ASI has observed instances where information was disclosed to the media before being brought to the notice of ASI headquarters.
- Who
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials and the press
- What
- ASI has issued a memo restricting officials from interacting with the press without prior approval
- When
- The memo was issued on Monday
- Where
- The memo was sent to the heads of office for all ASI circles and branches across the country
- Why
- To ensure that official information is communicated through the designated Media Spokesperson and to prevent unauthorized disclosure of official information
ASI's Stance
Press and Archaeologists' Perspective
Communication with Press
ASI's Stance
ASI officials must not interact with the press without prior approval from the Competent Authority or through the designated Media Spokesperson.
Press and Archaeologists' Perspective
Archaeologists and reporters argue that direct communication is necessary for timely dissemination of information, especially regarding ongoing excavations.
- Issuing Authority
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- Memo Title
- Unauthorised Communication of Official Information
- ASI Director General
- Yadubir Singh Rawat
- ASI Spokesperson
- Joint Director General Nandini Bhattacharya Sahu
- Relevant Rule
- Rule 11 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964