All members enrolled with the force under CISF Act, 1968, are subject

All members enrolled with the force under CISF Act, 1968, are subject to certain restrictions. Which one of the following does not apply to them ?

Associate with any trade union or labour union
Be a member of any political association
Be a member of any society that is not recognized as part of the force
Publish a book of scientific character
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2023
Section 12(1) of the CISF Act, 1968 imposes restrictions on the rights of members of the Force. It restricts association with trade unions, labour unions, political associations [12(1)(a)], membership in unrecognized societies (unless purely social/recreational/religious) [12(1)(b)], and communication with the press or publishing any book/document *except as permitted* [12(1)(c)]. Publishing a book, even of a scientific character, is restricted under 12(1)(c) unless permitted. However, Rule 76 of the CISF Rules, 2001 provides an exception, stating that the restriction on publication/communication does not apply if such publication or information is of a “purely scientific, artistic or literary character or is in the bona fide discharge of his duties”, provided prior permission of the Director-General is obtained (or sometimes only prior intimation is needed depending on the specific rules/circulars). While the Act restricts publishing any book without permission, the Rules provide an exception for purely scientific books from the requirement of *prior permission*. Therefore, the restriction on publishing a book of scientific character applies differently (with an exception under the Rules) compared to the absolute restrictions on associating with trade unions or political associations. In essence, publishing a purely scientific book is the activity least restricted among the options, as it can be permitted or even exempted from prior permission under specific conditions in the Rules, unlike the other forms of association which are generally prohibited. The statement “does not apply to them” in the question should be interpreted as “is not restricted in the same way or to the same extent as the others”.
– CISF Act restricts association with trade unions, political bodies, and publishing without permission.
– CISF Rules provide exceptions for publishing purely scientific/literary/artistic works from the need for *prior permission* mentioned in the Act.
Restrictions on members of disciplined forces are imposed to maintain discipline, neutrality, and efficiency. Associating with unions or political groups can interfere with these requirements. Publishing sensitive information is also restricted. However, academic or creative pursuits are sometimes exempted from strict restrictions, provided they do not conflict with service duties or national security.