New Social Media Rules for Kerala Police: What You Need to Know

A Bold Move by DGP Ravada Chandrasekhar

In a bid to instill discipline and restore the integrity of the force, newly appointed Kerala State Police Chief, DGP Ravada Chandrasekhar, has rolled out his first circular, which delineates a set of stringent social media conduct rules for officers. This directive aims to curb controversies and uphold institutional trust amidst ongoing debates linked to his appointment.

The Heart of the Directive

The crux of DGP Chandrasekhar’s message stresses the importance of digital restraint among police personnel. Officers have been specifically instructed to avoid engaging in any controversial online discussions, refraining from sharing personal opinions that might lead to public outrage or internal conflicts. This comes as a direct response to the recent uproar surrounding his ascension to the role of DGP.

Navigating Public Outcry

DGP Chandrasekhar’s appointment has sparked significant discourse online, with opinions diverging fiercely between support and opposition. Notably, some police personnel have been found participating in these discussions, prompting the necessity for the issued directive. Officers are now expected to maintain professionalism and steer clear of social media tangles.

Handling Phone Leaks: A New Priority

Adding a layer to the digital decorum directive, the circular also underscores the criticality of safeguarding communication. Officers are strictly warned against recording or disseminating phone calls, a measure prompted by recent leaks involving a magistrate’s conversation with a police officer, which heightened the need for confidentiality standards.

Beyond the Circular: Actions and Intent

While this is not the first attempt to regulate officer conduct online, the current administration shows a firm resolve in implementing these guidelines. The authorities are set on identifying and taking action against those responsible for inappropriate social media usage, particularly those tarnishing the reputation of senior officers like former ADGP M R Ajith Kumar.

A Glimpse Ahead

This new direction by DGP Ravada Chandrasekhar signals a profound commitment to restructure the code of conduct within the Kerala Police, ensuring that officers uphold the dignity and trust expected by the public. As stated in Mathrubhumi English, it’s a crucial step towards fostering a disciplined and trustworthy police force.

As social media continues to play an integral role in shaping public perception, it becomes increasingly vital for institutions like the police to adapt responsibly. These newly implemented guidelines are a testament to the evolving nature of law enforcement in the digital age.