Gujarat DGP Shivanand Jha has issued advisories including that of how to present before media through series of circulars for cops with a view to improve image of Gujarat police.
According to one such circular, Jha has banned junior police officers to give interview to electronic media on camera. In case of an incident pertaining to law & order or sensitive issue, only those holding ranks of SP, DCP and above have been permitted to go before electronic media. It is desired now that only officers of the rank of deputy police commissioner (DCPs) in commissionerate areas and deputy superintendent of police (DSP) in district areas give bites to the electronic media,” said the circular issued by the DGP.
According to DGP in such incidences, correct information should reach to the people. In the past half correct or wrong information given by junior officials, though unknowingly created controversies, said a senior police officer requesting anonymity.
Jha has also ordered all the officials to face camera only wearing their uniform and never give interview in civil dress. He has also put forth certain do’s and don’ts for his force.
The police personnel have been advised to wear only properly ironed uniform, to carry their baton at all times, speak over their cell phone “carefully” and not share information about any crime or enquiry with unauthorised persons, wear helmet and follow traffic rules when travelling on their two-wheelers, not vile away their time on traffic duty and be presentable in their behavior when in public places.
In view of improve image of the State police department, the cops have been advised not to hang around in public parks nor occupy benches kept on public places, especially when they are in uniform.
Jha who is a 1983 batch Gujarat cadre IPS officer was appointed as DGP in February this year replacing in-charge DGP PP Pandey.