As per the circular, Statute 24(1) of the Manipur University Act, 2005 states that "All the teachers and other academic staff of the University shall, in the absence of any agreement to the contrary, be governed by the terms and conditions of service and code of conduct as are specified in the Statutes, the Ordinances and the Regulations."

It further stated that Clause 9 of the Ordinance-D-15 of the Manipur University states that "No employee shall, in any radio broadcast, telecast through any electronic media or in any published in his own name or in anonymously, pseudonymously or in the name of any other person or in any communication to the press or in any public utterance, make any statement of fact or opinion which has the effect of an adverse criticism of any current or recent policy or action of the University or the University Grants Commission or the Government, or Which is capable of embarrassing the relations between the University and the Commission or the Government”. 

However, nothing in this rule shall apply to any statement made or views expressed by an employee in his official capacity or in the due performance of the duties assigned to him, the Clause 9 of the Ordinance-D-15 of the Manipur University further states, the circular said.

The circular by the Registrar also stated that Clause No.9 of the Central Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 1964 (Criticism of Government) also cautions any government employee from criticising the State and Central Government.

“Now, therefore, all employees of the University are requested to comply with the Manipur University Act, 2005, Statutes and Manipur University Ordinances including Central Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 1964. In case of any violation of the above provisions”, the Varsity said while warning that it “may be compelled to take necessary action”.