The Rajasthan police recently found themselves under scrutiny as some officers went “live” on social media during operations, a move that has drawn criticism from the state’s Director General of Police (DGP). The practice of broadcasting real-time updates from the field has sparked a debate over its implications on operational secrecy, public safety, and professional ethics.
In an age dominated by social media, some police personnel have taken to sharing live updates of their operations. From raids to high-stakes crime scenes, officers have streamed incidents in real time, garnering widespread attention and occasionally praise for transparency. However, this trend has also raised eyebrows for potentially compromising sensitive information.
The state’s DGP has publicly expressed concern over the growing phenomenon, emphasizing the need for discretion and professionalism. “Policing is about maintaining law and order, not about seeking social media validation,” the DGP reportedly said. He added that such actions could jeopardize the safety of officers and civilians while exposing critical details to criminals.
The DGP has instructed senior officers to ensure that field personnel adhere to protocol and avoid unauthorized use of social media during operations. A formal advisory is expected to be issued soon, outlining the dos and don’ts for police personnel engaging with digital platforms.
While social media allows law enforcement agencies to connect with the public and enhance transparency, experts caution against overuse. Broadcasting operations live can lead to unintended consequences, such as tipping off suspects or escalating situations unnecessarily.
The police department has been exploring ways to utilize social media responsibly. Official handles will continue to provide updates, but these will be carefully curated to ensure they do not compromise investigations or safety.
The live broadcasts have received mixed reactions from the public. While some citizens praised the efforts to maintain transparency, others echoed the DGP’s concerns about security and professionalism.
As Rajasthan police navigate the complexities of modern communication, the emphasis remains on striking a balance between public engagement and operational integrity.