Srinagar, Jul 16: The District Police Headquarters (DPHQ) Baramulla has issued an order making it mandatory for media personnel to possess a valid identity card issued by the District Information Officer (DIO), Baramulla, to gain access to official functions, VVIP/VIP visits, religious gatherings, public events, deployment areas and other restricted locations.
The order, issued by SSP Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh, said the directive has been issued in view of security arrangements and access control measures during official events requiring police deployment.
According to the order, only journalists carrying valid DIO-issued identity cards will be permitted entry into designated venues, deployment areas, media enclosures and other restricted locations.
It further directs all officers and personnel deployed on duty to strictly verify media credentials at all access control and checking points.
“No individual claiming to represent print, electronic, digital or social media platforms shall be allowed access unless he/she produces a valid identity card issued by DIO Baramulla,” the order states.
The SSP has also instructed supervisory officers to ensure strict compliance with the directions by all ranks, warning that any violation or unauthorised access would be viewed seriously.
The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain operational until further orders.
Copies of the order have been forwarded to senior police officers, the District Magistrate, the District Information Officer, and other concerned officials for implementation and wider dissemination among the media fraternity.

