Rule 23 of CCS Conduct Rules, 1964 - Interpretation

Rule 23 identifies the authority that decides questions about the meaning or interpretation of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964. If an interpretative question arises, the matter is to be referred to the Government, and the Government's decision is final under the rule.

Text of Rule 23 - Interpretation

Rule 23. Interpretation.
If any question arises relating to the interpretation of these rules, it shall be referred to the Government whose decision thereon shall be final.

What Rule 23 means

Rule 23 is an interpretation provision. It does not itself prescribe a separate standard of conduct or create a disciplinary offence. Instead, it provides a mechanism for resolving a genuine question about how a provision of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 is to be understood.

Question of interpretation: The rule applies where a question arises about the meaning or interpretation of the Conduct Rules.
Reference to Government: Such a question is to be referred to the Government for decision.
Finality under the rule: Rule 23 states that the Government's decision on the interpretative question shall be final.

Why Rule 23 is important

The Conduct Rules regulate a wide range of matters affecting Central Government servants. Where the wording or application of a rule gives rise to an interpretative doubt, Rule 23 provides a central mechanism intended to support consistent administrative interpretation rather than leaving the meaning of the rules to differing views at subordinate levels.

Important: Rule 23 should be read with the particular Conduct Rule that has given rise to the interpretative issue. The provision concerns interpretation of the rules; it does not replace the substantive requirements, permissions, prohibitions, procedures, or competent-authority provisions contained elsewhere in the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964.

Related provision: Rule 24

Rule 24 - Delegation of Powers is closely related because its text expressly excludes the powers under Rule 23 and Rule 24 itself from the ordinary delegation mechanism provided by that rule.

Official reference

For current Government instructions, amendments, and official service-rule material, refer to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India. The official Government material should prevail where there is any difference between an online explanatory article and the notified rules or official instructions.

Page reviewed and updated: 14 September 2026.