Rajasthan Police has banned appearance of its uniformed officials on social media platforms pushing non-policing agendas.
Director General of Police Utkal Ranjan Sahoo has directed all police officers to ensure that no uniformed policeman appear in videos and reels on social media for self promotion.
Sahoo said that it has come to his notice that some policemen in uniform post promotional reels, videos and stories which has no significance for police work.
“This is against the police rules. It doesn't portray positive image of the department and is against the dignity,” Sahoo said.
The police chief has asked all the district SPs and range IGs to percolate this order down the line.
“The controlling officers have been asked to identify officials who violate the rules. They will be penalised if found guilty of posting such posts on social media,” he said.
Sahoo has called upon all policemen to respect the dignity of uniform.
“Uniform is our commitment, dedication and symbol of accountability towards public. We have to be sensitive while donning the uniform. Misuse of the uniform is not only indiscipline but it also cracks down public's trust on us,” he said.
The order of DGP has come a couple of days after Kota SP Amrita Duhan directed police officials of Kota not to upload reels and videos misusing the authority and uniform of police. She had warned of strict action against policemen violating the directions.
Gujarat DGP had issued advisory for social media privacy
A few months ago, the DGP Gujarat has issued an advisory for IAS, IPS officers and government officials regarding social media privacy and security. The advisory stated that IAS and police officers should obtain a blue verified tick or badge against their social media handles that will prevent cases of impersonation on social media.
In India, popular social media site X formerly twitter charges Rs 6,800 annually for a verified account for individuals.
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