LUCKNOW, Aug. 22 -- The state government has issued strict instructions to all officers to follow courtroom protocol and uphold the dignity of the judiciary while appearing before courts or filing personal affidavits. In an important government order dated August 20, Uday Pratap Singh, principal secretary, justice and law, directed all additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries and secretaries of the state to ensure compliance with the new guidelines. The directive comes in reference to a letter dated August 11 from Manoj Kumar Singh, in-charge chief standing counsel, Allahabad high court. The government noted that it has been "generally observed" that officers required to appear before the court or to file personal affidavits neither follow the prescribed protocol nor maintain the dignity and decorum of the court. The law department has now made it mandatory for all departments to ensure officers follow specific rules. The order has been issued by Vikas Nagar, special secretary, justice and additional law counsel, on behalf of the principal secretary. Officials said the move is aimed at maintaining uniformity, discipline and respect for judicial proceedings, and to prevent procedural objections that arise due to improper affidavits or casual court appearances. Officers appearing before the court, either physically or through virtual mode, must compulsorily be in the prescribed dress code. While getting an affidavit verified, the photograph pasted on it must be recent and in proper attire. The photograph should not be in modern or flashy clothes, with open hair or coloured glasses. The signature of the officer giving the affidavit or of the oath commissioner/notary and the seal used by the oath commissioner/notary should only be in blue ink. Divisional commissioners, police commissioners and DMs have been directed to issue instructions at their level....