Islamabad Police bans social media use by personnel

Islamabad Police has introduced a new social media policy imposing strict restrictions on the use of social media by all officers and personnel across the department.

Under the new policy, police officials of all ranks will be prohibited from using social media in ways that violate departmental rules. The policy also bans officers and personnel from recording videos or taking photographs while wearing police uniforms without official permission.

The new rules strictly prohibit the use of police uniforms for personal publicity, fame or glamour. Police personnel will also face departmental action for recording or sharing videos while wearing uniforms at government vehicles, police offices or private locations without authorisation.

The policy also places restrictions on public statements and media interaction. Police officials will not be allowed to speak to the media, address public forums or write articles without prior permission from the relevant authorities.

According to the policy, personnel are also prohibited from expressing their personal political or religious views on social media. They cannot share departmental documents, confidential information, official photographs or other sensitive material on social media platforms.

The policy further states that even content intended to highlight the department’s positive activities will require prior approval from the DIG Headquarters. This measure has been introduced to ensure that all information about police activities is communicated through authorised channels.

Under the new system, information regarding Islamabad Police activities will only be released through the Public Relations Branch of the Central Police Office (CPO). Unit heads will be responsible for monitoring the social media activities of their staff and ensuring compliance with the policy.

The Islamabad Police has warned that violations of the new social media rules will result in departmental action against the officials concerned