The Odisha Police social media rules have been tightened for personnel deployed at sensitive and vital installations in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. Under a new directive issued by the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police, personnel posted at such locations have been barred from taking or recording photographs and videos without prior approval from the competent authority.
The directive comes after police authorities observed instances of personnel sharing videos related to their duties, deployment locations and workplaces on social media and other public platforms. Officials said such content could unintentionally expose confidential information or details about sensitive locations.
Odisha Police social media rules at sensitive locations
The restrictions apply to personnel deployed at several important establishments, including Lok Bhavan, Lok Seva Bhawan, Sri Lingaraj Temple, the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Orissa High Court, Reserve Bank of India premises, armouries and other sensitive installations.
According to the directive, police personnel at these locations cannot take photographs or record videos using electronic devices for any purpose without prior permission from the competent authority.
The measure is aimed at protecting operational information and preventing details about security arrangements and police deployment from reaching the public domain.
Reels and duty-related videos face restrictions
The new guidelines also address the practice of creating and sharing social media content while on duty. Police personnel found making or posting reels or other videos in violation of the instructions may face action under applicable rules.
Police authorities have stressed that even seemingly routine photographs or videos can potentially reveal information about security arrangements, deployment patterns or sensitive locations.
The directive therefore places greater emphasis on maintaining confidentiality while personnel are carrying out security duties.
Sentries barred from mobile phone use while on duty
The guidelines also contain a specific restriction for sentries. Personnel deployed as sentries have been strictly prohibited from using mobile phones while on duty, according to the order.
The restriction is intended to ensure that sensitive information is not inadvertently exposed and that personnel remain focused on their security responsibilities.
Commissionerate Police orders strict compliance
The Police Commissioner has directed officers in charge of important installations and sensitive locations to monitor compliance with the instructions and take steps to prevent violations.
The order states that violations will be viewed seriously and that appropriate action will be taken against personnel who breach the guidelines under the applicable rules.
The Odisha Police social media rules reflect a focus on protecting operational confidentiality at sensitive installations while restricting unauthorised photography, video recording and social media sharing during duty. The guidelines cover personnel deployed in both Bhubaneswar and Cuttack and are intended to prevent security-related information from being inadvertently made public.
