Bihar Police Launches Crackdown on Social Media Reels Made in Uniform
In a significant move to enforce discipline and uphold the dignity of the uniform, Bihar Police headquarters has initiated action against 50 personnel who were caught making and posting videos on social media while wearing official attire. This crackdown targets a growing trend where police officers, often in uniform, create content for platforms like Instagram and TikTok, despite an existing ban issued by the director general of police (DGP).
District SPs Directed to Take Disciplinary Measures
All district superintendents of police (SPs) have been instructed to initiate action against the identified personnel and ensure strict adherence to the standard operating procedure (SOP). The list, issued on April 20 by assistant inspector general (AIG) of police (Welfare) Smita Suman, flags personnel who were found posting reels across various platforms in clear violation of departmental norms.
According to the official communication, monitoring by the Internet Media Centre at Police headquarters revealed "continuous posting of reels in uniform," which was deemed detrimental to the dignity of the police department. "Links to the reels and videos concerned have been attached with the list for the SPs concerned to ensure transparency in action," the letter stated.
Patna Tops the List of Violators
The distribution of identified personnel across districts is as follows:
- Patna: 16 personnel
- Madhubani: 4 personnel
- Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Saran, Jamui, Darbhanga, Motihari (East Champaran): 2 personnel each
- Katihar, Gopalganj, Kishanganj, Sheikhpura, Saharsa, Buxar, Kaimur, Munger: 1 personnel each
The action against the erring officers will be decided by their respective SPs, who have been empowered to recommend appropriate disciplinary measures.
Past Controversies Resurface
This crackdown has brought attention back to past controversies involving police personnel and social media conduct. Two policewomen from Purnia figure on the list, including Women Police Station SHO Shabana Azmi. She had previously drawn scrutiny when, during her tenure at Phanishwar Nath Renu ToP, images allegedly showing family members seated on the SHO's chair were circulated online.
Though the then DIG had spoken of taking action, the matter later faded, and she was subsequently transferred to another posting.
Officials Cite Lack of Compliance with Directives
Police officials emphasize that this issue is not isolated. "Despite repeated instructions from police headquarters and a clear directive at DGP-level to avoid reels or private video shoots in uniform, compliance has been lacking," said Chandan Puri of the social media cell at police headquarters. "In the coming days, departmental action will be recommended on some more police personnel."
A senior officer added, "Police personnel must maintain discipline and dignity in social media use. This step is necessary to uphold departmental discipline and the honour of the uniform."
The crackdown underscores the Bihar Police's commitment to maintaining professional standards in the digital age, where social media presence can sometimes conflict with traditional notions of discipline and decorum expected from uniformed personnel.
