Himachal Pradesh Officer Under Investigation for Social Media Promotion

Allegations Against HPAS Officer

Complaint Reaches Chief Secretary; Department Asked to Examine Matter

Munish Sood
Shimla

Oshin Sharma, an officer of the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HPAS) and currently serving as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Shimla, is facing scrutiny due to allegations of promoting a private company's product on her social media accounts while in public service.

The controversy arose when a promotional video endorsing a fitness product aimed at gym-goers was posted on her social media. This video has since been deleted, igniting discussions about the appropriateness of such endorsements under the conduct regulations for government employees.

Formal Complaint and Investigation Initiated

A formal complaint has been lodged with the state government regarding this issue. Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta has confirmed receipt of the complaint and has instructed the relevant department to investigate the matter.

Sources indicate that the department is tasked with determining whether Sharma's actions constitute a breach of the established service conduct rules. As of now, no official conclusion has been reached.

Conduct Rules Under Scrutiny

This incident has reignited discussions surrounding the Civil Services Conduct Rules, particularly those that prohibit government employees from engaging in business or other employment without prior consent. Social media users have raised concerns about whether endorsing a commercial product, even on personal accounts, falls under restricted activities.

Experts in administration suggest that the outcome of the inquiry will hinge on whether the promotion involved financial compensation, formal endorsement contracts, or constituted active commercial participation.

Oshin Sharma's Background

Oshin Sharma, a 2021-batch HPAS officer, hails from Bharmour in the Chamba district, although her family later moved to Dharamshala. She has been a notable figure in state administrative discussions.

In April 2021, she married former BJP MLA Vishal Nehria, but the marriage ended in divorce due to reported personal issues. Previously, while serving as Tehsildar in Sandhol, Mandi district, she attracted attention after receiving a notice from the Deputy Commissioner regarding outstanding official tasks.

Significant Social Media Presence

In addition to her administrative duties, Sharma has a robust social media presence, boasting over 370,000 followers on both Facebook and Instagram, along with nearly 65,000 YouTube subscribers. Her online visibility has often heightened public interest in her professional and personal life.

As the investigation unfolds, this case is poised to explore the balance between personal expression on digital platforms and the accountability expected from public servants. The findings may also clarify how the increasing social media engagement of civil servants aligns with existing conduct regulations.