KARACHI: The Sindh Police has introduced a new media policy requiring all police officers to obtain prior approval from the Inspector General (IG) of Police before appearing on any media platform in an official capacity.
According to an official directive issued by the Central Police Office (CPO) on the instructions of the Inspector General of Sindh, no police officer will be allowed to participate in television programs, radio broadcasts, podcasts, press conferences, or any other form of media engagement without first securing permission from the IG.
The notification, released by the Additional Inspector General (AIG) Operations, states that the decision has been taken to ensure a unified, accurate, and responsible communication policy across the Sindh Police. The directive aims to regulate the dissemination of official information and prevent the unauthorized release of sensitive details related to police operations, investigations, or intelligence matters.
Under the new guidelines, prior approval is mandatory for officers intending to represent the department in interviews, panel discussions, media briefings, or public events where they would be speaking in their official capacity. The restrictions also extend to digital media platforms, including online news channels, podcasts, webinars, and other public forums.
The directive specifies that officers granted permission to appear before the media must strictly adhere to the agenda approved by the competent authority. They will not be permitted to discuss topics beyond the authorized scope of the briefing or interview. This measure is intended to ensure consistency in official messaging and avoid conflicting or unauthorized statements that could affect public perception or ongoing law enforcement activities.
The order further prohibits officers from disclosing sensitive information relating to ongoing investigations, intelligence reports, operational strategies, or any confidential matter that could compromise police work or national security. Officials have been instructed to exercise caution while communicating with journalists or the public and to ensure that confidential information remains protected at all times.
According to the notification, supervisory officers across the province have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the new policy. Senior police officials have been tasked with monitoring compliance and making certain that subordinate officers do not violate the instructions.
The directive also warns that any breach of the newly introduced media policy will be taken seriously. Officers found violating the instructions may face departmental disciplinary proceedings under the relevant service rules. The Sindh Police leadership has emphasized that maintaining institutional discipline and protecting the integrity of official communications are among the key objectives of the new policy.
Officials believe the move will help streamline the department’s interaction with the media by ensuring that only verified and authorized information reaches the public. It is also expected to reduce confusion arising from multiple officials issuing statements on the same issue without coordination.
The policy reflects a broader effort by the Sindh Police to strengthen internal communication protocols and maintain centralized control over official public messaging. Law enforcement agencies often deal with sensitive investigations and security operations, making it essential that information released to the public is accurate, timely, and cleared through the appropriate channels.
The directive comes at a time when digital media platforms have significantly expanded the avenues through which officials can communicate directly with the public. By extending the approval requirement to podcasts, online forums, and other digital platforms, the Sindh Police has acknowledged the growing influence of new media alongside traditional television, radio, and print outlets.
With the implementation of the new guidelines, all officers are expected to coordinate with the office of the Inspector General before participating in any media-related activity. The department has reiterated that the policy is designed to safeguard operational confidentiality, promote institutional discipline, and ensure that official communications remain consistent and credible.
The notification has now been circulated to all relevant police formations across Sindh, with instructions for immediate compliance. Senior officers have been directed to brief their respective units about the new regulations and ensure that every officer understands the procedures governing media appearances and public communication.
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