Delhi Police Warns Against Social Media Reels in Uniforms

New Delhi, May 27 (PTI): Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora has expressed strong disapproval of police personnel creating social media reels while in uniform, labeling this trend as an "abuse of uniform". He has emphasized the importance of clear demarcation between the personal and professional lives of the officers. The directive, which was issued on May 24, comes in response to a rising number of officers posting videos that prominently feature their uniforms and police insignia.

The order highlights that despite previous instructions, many officers continue to make and share these videos online while in uniform. A communication, which includes a list of personnel identified in these activities, has been dispatched to the deputy commissioners of police. They have been instructed to educate their teams about the significance of maintaining professional decorum.

"The actions of the officers under your command are a breach of the standing orders and prior directives," the order stated.

Back in 2023, Commissioner Arora had introduced social media guidelines for police personnel, advising them to uphold the "dignity of the uniform" and refrain from using official gear for informal content creation. These guidelines also caution officers against sharing any sensitive information linked to ongoing investigations or related to suspects and arrested individuals.

The latest directive reminds officers of these guidelines, insisting that they ensure that staff under their supervision understand the necessity to separate private and professional boundaries. It stresses that misuse of the uniform on social media platforms is "unacceptable". Commanding officers have been asked to submit a compliance report by June 15.

Police sources have compiled a zone- and unit-specific list detailing over 100 personnel engaging in such activities, including more than 15 repeat offenders. Some officers have reportedly used their ranks as online usernames and set the Delhi Police logo as their profile images, blurring lines between personal identity and official representation. A video that circulated on social media highlighted the misuse, showing a Delhi Police ID card with captions like "power of Delhi Police" and "Delhi Police passing booths without tolls."

Following the directive, several officers have removed the content from their accounts. Official sources noted that with a force exceeding 90,000 officers, the Delhi Police has also advised its members against participating in public performances while in uniform. Instead, they're encouraged to support community programs in a respectful and non-active capacity, maintaining the decorum expected of the police force.

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