A recent order has barred police officers in Himachal Pradesh below the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) in districts and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in ranges from interacting with mediapersons.
The media have reacted strongly, saying the order goes against the spirit of democracy.
The directive, issued by the Office of the Director General of Police (DGP) late on Thursday evening, stated that Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) had on several occasions been seen interacting with the media, making public statements, and commenting on crime, investigations, and other policing matters.
The order clarified that only the Superintendent of Police (SP) of a district and the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of a range are authorised to formally interact with mediapersons on issues related to crime, law and order, investigations, policing policies, and other official matters, and that too with prior approval from police headquarters wherever needed.
It further stated that all other officers, including SDPOs and SHOs, shall not address the media in their official capacity, issue statements or comments to print, electronic, or social media, or give interviews, briefings, or reactions on official matters unless specifically authorised in writing by the competent authority.
The instructions were issued under Rule 7 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, that bars government servants from sharing information with the media or the public without prior government approval, the order said.
The order also referred to Section 29 of the Himachal Pradesh Police Act, 2007, which requires discipline, obedience to lawful orders, and adherence to prescribed conduct by police personnel.
It also cited Rules 16.1 and 16.2 of the Punjab Police Rules, 1934, as applicable to Himachal Pradesh, which stress discipline, subordination, and compliance with lawful orders.
Meanwhile, mediapersons on Friday said the directive undermines transparency and accountability. They also asked how a single officer would be able to handle more than 50 media calls during emergencies or major incidents.
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