Odisha Police Orders Removal of Tattoos Among Special Security Battalion Personnel

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police has issued a directive urging its special security battalion personnel to remove tattoos on their bodies within 15 days, citing them as offensive, obscene, and derogatory when visible with the uniform.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Security) issued the directive, emphasizing the need to maintain the professional image of the Battalion and the Odisha Police. The directive comes as a response to the observation of tattoos on a significant number of unit members, which are considered to demean the reputation of the force.

In a release, the Deputy Commissioner stated, “Tattoos that are visible while wearing the uniform are not permitted, as they are offensive, obscene, and derogatory in nature.” The directive further instructed all Guard In-Charges to compile a list of personnel with visible tattoos and ask them to remove them permanently within 15 days from the date of receiving the orders.

Failure to comply with the directive will result in necessary departmental actions being initiated against the individuals. Additionally, personnel were advised against getting tattoos on their face, neck, and hands to uphold a level of professionalism.

The move aims to uphold the dignity and professionalism of the Odisha Police force, ensuring that its personnel maintain a respectable appearance in uniform.