Punjab Police Bans Officers from Social Media Use While on Duty

Punjab Police officers have been officially prohibited from using social media platforms, such as TikTok and Facebook, during their duty hours. This policy was enacted after concerns were raised about officers spending excessive time on social media, especially making TikTok videos, rather than focusing on their responsibilities.

The decision comes on the orders of the Punjab chief minister’s office, which directed the Punjab inspector general of police (IGP) to impose restrictions on social media usage by officers. A notification issued recently highlights that a growing number of police personnel were becoming popular on social media, with their videos, including those of women officers, frequently going viral.

As per the new policy, police officers are not permitted to upload videos or content in their uniforms without prior approval from the district police officer (DPO). Additionally, officers are barred from expressing personal, political, or religious views on social media while in uniform. Departmental action will be taken against any officer found violating this policy.

The use of police vehicles or official premises for social media content creation by private individuals has also been explicitly banned. Regional police officers (RPOs) and unit heads are tasked with ensuring the strict implementation of this policy, and they will be held accountable for any infractions.