Uttarakhand Implements New Security SOP for Government Offices

Dehradun , February 25, 2026 The Uttarakhand government has issued a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to strengthen security across all state government offices. The SOP, released by Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, lays down strict guidelines for entry, visitor management, security checks, and conduct within government premises. Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan has instructed all departments to enforce strict access control, ensure employee safety, and maintain discipline within government premises. The government has clarified that these measures aim to promote a secure, orderly, and citizen‑friendly administrative environment.

Mandatory Registration and Appointment-Based Entry

According to the SOP, all visitors must register at the reception before entering any government office and present a valid identity card. Entry to meet officials will be permitted only with a pre‑scheduled appointment or token. Visitors arriving without an appointment may be turned back at the gate.

The government has emphasized that any form of chaos, sloganeering, abusive behavior, or physical assault on government staff will be treated as a serious punishable offence. Such incidents will lead to immediate FIR under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), removal from the premises, and blacklisting from future entry.

Digital Visitor Management System to Be Implemented

All offices have been directed to install a Digital Visitor Management System (VMS). Under this system-

Visitor photographs will be captured
Identity documents will be verified
Purpose of visit will be recorded
A time‑stamped visitor pass will be issued
Visitor passes must be returned upon exit

Security provisions include door-frame metal detectors, frisking by trained personnel, and a ban on entry of general public vehicles. Only authorized vehicles will be allowed inside.

Rules for Meetings and Public Hearings

Department heads must specify fixed public‑hearing timings and display them in the office and on their website. The SOP limits entry to Maximum three persons in an officer’s chamber at a time and Maximum two members from any delegation. To strengthen monitoring, government offices will be equipped with high‑quality CCTV cameras, with recordings preserved for at least 90 days. Silent panic alarms will be installed in officer rooms and at reception counters.

The SOP prohibits carrying: Inflammable substances, Ink bottles, Sticks or rods, Weapons, Any objectionable or dangerous object. Video recording within office premises will require prior permission from a competent authority.

In case of any incident, CCTV footage will be preserved, medical examination conducted when required, and investigations will be carried out by officers of Inspector rank or above. High‑risk offices may also undergo annual security audits.