Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Director General of Police and State Police Chief (SPC) Ravada A. Chandrasekhar has issued a circular directing police personnel across the state not to attend religious functions, rituals or celebrations while wearing their official uniform, except when deployed for authorised official duties.
The directive was issued following multiple complaints against police personnel who were seen participating in religious events in uniform and sharing photographs and video reels of such appearances on social media platforms.
The complaints prompted the police headquarters to issue fresh instructions reiterating the proper use of the official police uniform.
According to the circular, police officers are prohibited from wearing their official uniform while attending religious ceremonies, festivals or celebrations in their personal capacity.
However, the restriction does not apply to personnel assigned official duties such as maintaining law and order, managing crowds or providing security arrangements during religious events.
The circular noted that the police uniform represents the neutrality and impartiality of the force and should not be used in a way that could create an impression of official support or endorsement of any particular religion or religious activity.
The order applies to all ranks of the Kerala Police, from civil police officers to senior-level officials, making it applicable throughout the force.
Police personnel have also been warned against creating or sharing social media content, including reels and videos, showing themselves in uniform while attending religious programmes in a personal capacity.
The move is aimed at strengthening professional standards among police personnel and protecting the secular image and public credibility of the force.
Senior police officials said the instructions are intended to ensure that the official uniform is used strictly for authorised responsibilities and that officers maintain institutional neutrality while carrying out their duties.
The circular serves as a reminder that the police uniform represents the authority of the state and should not be linked with personal religious activities outside official assignments.
With IANS inputs