TNR News Network
Shimla:
A fresh circular issued by Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tiwari has triggered widespread discussion, with critics terming it a “gag order” on police personnel. The directive restrains police officers and staff from speaking to the media unless they are formally authorised.
According to the circular, only designated officers will be permitted to interact with journalists and respond to media queries. The move, the DGP said, is aimed at “ensuring discipline and consistency in official communication”.
Only authorised officers to address media
The DGP noted that in several districts, Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) have been interacting with the media on various matters. This includes public statements made during the assumption of charge at new postings. During such interactions, comments are often made on crime, investigations and other policing matters, which the department considers inappropriate without authorisation.
Under the new order, only Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Range-level Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) will be allowed to formally brief the media on law and order, investigations, police policies and related issues. In exceptional cases, other officers may speak to the media only after prior approval from police headquarters.
Service rules cited, disciplinary action warned
The circular cites Rule 7 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which prohibits government employees from making statements to the media or releasing information without prior government sanction. It also refers to Section 29 of the Himachal Pradesh Police Act, 2007, which mandates strict adherence to prescribed standards of conduct.
The DGP has directed all officers to ensure strict compliance with the instructions at every level. Any violation of the order, the circular warns, will invite disciplinary action.
Social media restrictions reiterated
The latest directive comes close on the heels of earlier guidelines issued by the police headquarters on social media conduct. Police personnel had been instructed not to upload photographs, videos or reels in uniform on social media platforms.
While the police leadership maintains that the move is meant to streamline official communication and prevent the spread of unauthorised information, the circular has reignited debate over transparency and the extent of communication curbs within the force.
