Kerala gets tough over smoking, drinking at workplace

With immediate effect, all Kerala government employees, including teaching and non-teaching staff in educational institutions, will face disciplinary action if they are found smoking, drunk or using intoxicants during office hours.

"Even though the rules of the government are very clear that government employees should desist from such acts, this is not being followed and hence, it has been decided to implement this strictly as lots of complaints have come," a new government order issued here on Wednesday said.

The order also warned senior officials who are authorised to take action that they too will be penalised if they do not act against erring officials.

Drivers will be suspended if they are under the influence of liquor during office hours.