AGP tasked to oversee police's social media policy

SPs to be held responsible for publicising under-custody suspects

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LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed the Advocate General Punjab (AGP) to supervise the formulation and implementation of the Punjab Police's social media policy, amid rising concerns over the public humiliation of under-custody accused through online videos.

During proceedings on Thursday, Justice Ali Zia Bajwa instructed the AGP to provide proper guidelines to the police department regarding social media conduct.

Additionally, the court directed the Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Police to issue strict protocols for giving media interviews, warning that concerned Superintendents of Police (SPs) will be held accountable if any official is found violating these directives.

The directives come in the wake of multiple incidents where police officers were found making videos of under-custody individuals — including women — during raids, shaving the heads of suspects, and uploading such content on social media platforms.

Justice Bajwa questioned the long-term impact of such media trials, remarking: "What would be the fate of the media trial of a person if he is acquitted after two years?"

The court has sought a comprehensive report on the police department's social media policy by April 25.

The LHC was hearing multiple contempt petitions against police officials, including one case involving a raid on a dance party in Kasur, during which police filmed and uploaded videos of arrested individuals, including women.

In another instance, videos surfaced showing suspects, allegedly involved in kite flying and aerial firing, having their heads shaved by officers.

Despite a clear directive from the LHC on December 13, 2023, strictly prohibiting the recording or public sharing of interviews or videos of under-custody individuals prior to legal proceedings, violations have persisted.

During Thursday's hearing, the AIG submitted an investigation report confirming that one Station House Officer (SHO) and two constables were found guilty of misconduct.

It was further revealed that the Personal Staff Officer (PSO) of the District Police Officer (DPO) Kasur was the mastermind behind the controversial dance party raid.