In a recent directive, the Odisha Police has instructed personnel within its special security battalion to eliminate any tattoos adorning their bodies within a 15-day timeframe. The rationale behind this mandate stems from the assertion that such skin markings, when visible in uniform, are deemed “obscene and derogatory.”
The order, issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Security) in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, calls upon all relevant officials to compile a roster of Special Security Battalion (SSB) members sporting “easily noticeable tattoos.”
Tasked with safeguarding critical installations such as the Chief Minister’s residence, Raj Bhavan, the state secretariat, Odisha Legislative Assembly, and the high court, SSB personnel also extend security coverage to VIPs and dignitaries both within and visiting the state from other parts of India.
“A significant number of unit members have been observed to adorn their bodies with tattoos that detract from the reputation of the battalion and the Odisha Police at large, given their offensive, obscene, and derogatory nature,” articulated the DCP (Security) in the directive.
Consequently, effective immediately, visible tattoos while in uniform are deemed unacceptable, as per the order.
Supervisory personnel overseeing SSB members have been instructed to identify individuals with tattoos prominently displayed on body parts visible in uniform and require them to expunge such tattoos permanently within 15 days of receiving the directive.
Emphasizing compliance, the DCP cautioned that failure to adhere to the directive would prompt necessary departmental actions against non-compliant individuals.
Furthermore, SSB personnel were advised against obtaining tattoos on their face, neck, and hands to uphold standards of professionalism.