Islamabad Police has introduced a new social media policy for its officers and other personnel. The policy will apply immediately after approval by the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The new rules place several restrictions on how police officials can use social media.
What does the new policy say?
Police personnel will not be allowed to make videos or take pictures while wearing their uniforms. They also cannot use the police uniform for personal promotion or to gain popularity.
Officers and other staff will also face action if they make videos in uniform inside official vehicles or offices. Videos made at private places while wearing the uniform are also covered by the new rules.
Police personnel cannot give statements to the media without permission. They are also not allowed to speak at public forums or write articles for print media without approval.
The policy also stops officials from sharing their personal political or religious views on social media.
Official or confidential documents and photographs cannot be shared online either.
Who can share police activities online?
The policy states that official information about Islamabad Police will be shared through the Public Relations Branch of the Central Police Office (CPO).
Police personnel who want to post about positive departmental activities must first get approval from the DIG Headquarters through the required channel.
Unit heads will be responsible for checking the social media activities of personnel working under them.
Officials who break the rules may face departmental action.
Is this the first social media policy?
The restrictions are not completely new. Islamabad Police had issued similar instructions in September 2024.
In July 2025, two police constables were also suspended over allegedly inappropriate social media posts made while wearing police uniforms.
The latest policy comes as Islamabad Police continues to focus on online activities. The IGP has also directed officials to increase cyber patrolling and monitor criminal activities carried out through social media and the internet.
