Kerala’s Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday said that in computerized government offices, Internet access will be restricted because its being misused. From what we’ve observed, its really Facebook which is being used during office hours. Ironically, the notice was put up by Mr Chandy on his Facebook wall. Hat tip: @NikhilNarayanan
Of course this is going to get its due on Twitter and Facebook! The update which was posted less than half an hour ago, is already being debated on Twitter. Wonder how many of them are using office computers?
Now we really don’t know if this should be called a step forward or backwards. On one hand, we think instead of restricting usage, a better approach would be to encourage responsible use. But then, who are we kidding right? Whatever works! It could free up bandwidth for official networks and also save precious 9 to 5 time working hours. And nothing prevents them from using their personal devices to access the Internet.
Meanwhile, in another Facebook udpate, the Chief Minister said
Mobile governance project has been initiated to utilise the strengths of mobile penetration in the State using the concept of ‘always on’ connection for delivery of citizen services through mobile phones on a 24×7 basis. The public will not have to visit government offices or log on to Internet portals to access services.
The Mobile Governance project will throw up fresh opportunities for Kerala based startups like MobMe which is already working on similar projects. Mobme is putting together a mobile identity ecosystem called Mobile Express. It has partnered with Gemalto, the Dutch security leader and Valimo Wireless Oy of Finland to roll out mobile digital signatures for secure logins and transactions.
