In a bold move to maintain decorum, Bihar Police has initiated disciplinary action against over 50 officers caught sharing social media reels while in uniform. Patna is at the forefront in this matter, where this violation of established restrictions has raised questions.

Patna: The uniform comes with discipline – and now, Bihar Police is making that point clear in the age of reels and social media addiction. Taking action, the Police Headquarters has ordered action against 50 personnel caught making and posting videos in official uniform.The move targets a growing trend where policemen, often in uniform, post content on social media. Despite the existing restrictions issued by the Director General of Police (DGP), compliance remains weak.All District Superintendents of Police (SP) have now been directed to initiate action against the identified personnel and ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The list released by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) (Welfare) Smita Suman on April 20 identified personnel who were found posting reels on the platforms in violation of norms.Patna tops the list with 16 personnel, followed by Madhubani with four personnel. Two personnel each have been identified in Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Saran, Jamui, Darbhanga and Motihari (East Champaran), while one personnel each has been identified in Katihar, Gopalganj, Kishanganj, Sheikhpura, Saharsa, Buxar, Kaimur and Munger.According to official communication, monitoring of the Internet Media Center at the police headquarters revealed “persistent posting of reels in uniform”, which was considered detrimental to departmental dignity. “Links of reels and videos have been attached with the list for the concerned SP to ensure transparency in the proceedings,” the letter said.SP will decide on action against guilty policemen.This action also brings attention to past controversies. The names of two women policemen from Purnia are included in the list, including women police station in-charge Shabana Azmi. He had earlier also been the subject of investigation when during his tenure at Phanishwar Nath Renu Top, photographs purportedly showing family members sitting on the SHO’s chair were circulated online. Although the then DIG had talked about action, but later the matter calmed down and he was later transferred.Officials say this case is not isolated. Chandan Puri of the social media cell at the police headquarters said, “Despite repeated instructions from the police headquarters and clear instructions at the DGP level to avoid reel or personal video shoots in uniform, there has been a lack of compliance. Departmental action will be recommended against some more police personnel in the coming days.”“Police personnel should maintain discipline and dignity in the use of social media. This step is necessary to maintain departmental discipline and honor of uniform,” a senior officer said.