Gilgit-Baltistan IGP bans TikTok for cops

GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) Police has barred its personnel from using the social media platform TikTok “to maintain discipline, uniformity, and the dignity of the force”.

“In order to maintain discipline, uniformity, and dignity of the force, it is hereby directed that no GB police officer/official shall use social media platform (TikTok),” reads an official circular issued by the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP)

The circular directed all district police officers and unit heads to convey the order to personnel under their command.

It warned that non-compliance with these directives will be “viewed seriously” and may result in disciplinary action.

The decision aligns with a growing trend across the country where provincial police forces have restricted social media use among officers.

In July this year, the Islamabad Capital Police issued a comprehensive social media policy for all federal police officers and personnel, imposing strict restrictions on their online activity.

According to the notification issued by the Islamabad IGP, officers and officials are prohibited from sharing statements or opinions on social media without prior permission from the department.

The notification also banned the use of official uniforms in videos or photos for personal promotion purposes.

In September last year, a similar ban was imposed by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) police, banning cops across the province from using social media platforms.

An official statement issued at that time said police officers were no longer allowed to use TikTok, Facebook, or Instagram. The ban also extended to the use of WhatsApp by officers and personnel.

Also in September 2024, on the directives of the Punjab chief minister’s office, the use of social media platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, was banned for on-duty policemen.

Punjab Police authorities warned that strict departmental action would be taken against personnel uploading videos in uniform.