The Gilgit-Baltistan police have officially prohibited the use of TikTok by its personnel in a move aimed at maintaining discipline and dignity within the force. A notification issued by the office of the inspector general of police stated that all officers and officials are barred from using the platform. District police officers and unit heads have been directed to ensure the order reaches all subordinates, with strict disciplinary action warned against those who fail to comply. The ban comes as part of broader efforts to regulate the conduct of law enforcement officials on social media platforms.
The move follows a series of similar actions taken by police forces in other parts of the country in recent months. Earlier this year, two constables from the Security Division in Islamabad were suspended and placed under inquiry after uploading TikTok videos while in uniform, violating the capital police’s social media policy. Sources noted that dozens of lower-ranking personnel were also cautioned and told to deactivate their TikTok accounts to prevent further action. The concern centers on maintaining professionalism and avoiding misuse of platforms that could harm the image of law enforcement institutions.
In March, Punjab Police issued a formal warning to its officers against posting offensive or inappropriate views about the state on personal social media accounts. This was part of a broader set of guidelines issued in September 2024, when both Islamabad and Punjab Police introduced structured policies governing social media use by officers. The guidelines prohibited officers from making statements or opinions across any digital platforms and placed responsibility on divisional and zonal heads to personally supervise and monitor online activity of their subordinates.
The restrictions reflect a growing emphasis across government institutions to regulate the digital presence of public employees. In September 2024, federal government employees were also directed to refrain from posting political or religious opinions online and from sharing sensitive information with unauthorised officials or the media. Authorities argue that such measures are essential to prevent reputational risks and ensure that public servants adhere to codes of conduct in both physical and digital environments. The decision by Gilgit-Baltistan police to ban TikTok reinforces the ongoing trend of enforcing stricter discipline standards across Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies in the digital age.
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