Police personnel advised against posting social media reels in uniform

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued an advisory discouraging police personnel from making and posting reels on social media while in uniform. This move comes in response to an increasing trend of officers creating such videos, which are often amplified by social media pages across the Valley.

A senior J&K Police officer told The Tribune that a “verbal advisory” has been communicated to personnel on the ground. “It has been observed that some officials create and upload reels in uniform, which goes against the decorum and professionalism of the police force. We have advised them to refrain from this practice,” the officer stated.

Another senior official highlighted concerns about security risks, noting that some reels disclose sensitive details, such as the officers’ locations, which violates established rules and regulations. “This generational shift in behaviour has influenced some officers, but we are confident the advisory will put an end to this trend,” he added. Many young police officers have garnered significant attention, with their reels amassing thousands of likes and shares on social media. However, such practices have raised concerns among senior officials.

Earlier this month, Kupwara Police issued a public appeal urging social media users, journalists, and the general public to avoid sharing or posting videos, photos, or other content involving police officers or activities without prior permission from the relevant authority or the District Police Headquarters.

For the journalists, the police statement emphasised that “unnecessary or unauthorised sharing of content related to police visits or activities without permission is strongly discouraged.”

It further called for cooperation to help maintain the dignity and professionalism of the police force while ensuring only relevant information is shared with the public.

In Bandipora, SSP Harmeet Singh issued a similar request, urging his social media contacts not to share videos or posts featuring Bandipora Police or its officers without permission.

Officials hope that these advisories will curb the trend and uphold the professionalism and security of the police force in the region.