'No Jhumkas, Bangles On Duty': Bihar Police Issue Directive For Women Officers

The Bihar Police Headquarters has issued a strict directive prohibiting female officers from wearing jewellery and makeup while on duty, citing concerns over discipline and decorum within the force.

The circular, released on Monday, July 7, instructs all senior officers—including Range IGs, SSPs, and SPs—to ensure that women personnel such as constables, sub-inspectors, and inspectors do not report for duty wearing adornments or cosmetics. Non-compliance, the order warns, may invite disciplinary action.

What the Official Letter States

The circular, issued by the Additional Director General (ADG) of Law and Order, reads:
"It has been frequently observed that female police officers and personnel wear large-sized ornaments such as jhumkas (dangling earrings), nose rings, bangles, and other decorative accessories while on duty. This is against the dignity and discipline expected from members of the police force."

DGP Called for Strict Enforcement

The move follows a review meeting where Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of discipline. Acting on his directives, the ADG instructed all senior police officials across the state to ensure full compliance with the new grooming protocol.

District-level officers have now also been directed to enforce the rule firmly. Officials noted that instances of female personnel wearing oversized earrings and other accessories while on duty had become increasingly common, prompting the need for the crackdown.

The directive is part of efforts to maintain the decorum and discipline that form the core values of the police force.

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