Bihar Police Bars Tilak, Religious Symbols for Cops on Duty, Warns of Suspension

Patna, April 27, KNT: Bihar Director General of Police Vinay Kumar has directed all police personnel in uniform to refrain from applying tilak, chandan, or other visible religious symbols while on duty, warning that violations could invite disciplinary action, including suspension.

The directive, issued to enforce discipline and maintain a neutral and professional image of the force, applies to all uniformed personnel across departments in the state.

According to the order, police personnel must not display any religious markers on their forehead while in uniform. The directive also stresses strict adherence to prescribed dress norms, including wearing caps and belts, stating that appearing in uniform without a cap would be treated as incomplete attire.

The order further outlines guidelines on appearance, particularly for female constables, asking them to avoid heavy makeup and refrain from wearing visible jewelry such as bangles, kangans, mangalsutras, or jhumkas over their uniform.

The move follows recent action against personnel accused of indiscipline on social media, with police suspending around 40 to 50 individuals for creating reels while in uniform. Officials said the latest directive is part of broader efforts to regulate conduct and reinforce professionalism within the force.

The circular emphasizes that police personnel must maintain a uniform and disciplined appearance while on duty, irrespective of personal religious practices.

The directive has triggered debate in some quarters, with critics questioning the move as unnecessary restriction, while others have supported it as a step toward ensuring neutrality and professionalism in policing. [KNT]