Lahore: The Lahore Police Department has issued an explanation guide for the on-site personnel, emphasizing strict compliance with court directives and departmental rules regarding media interactions.
The guidelines have been constructed under subscales of Sections 6 and 9 of Punjab Police Media Policy.
These guidelines allow field officials to seek prior permission before accepting interviews related to any circumstances.
“Any interview related to the case will be conditional under formal approval,” a spokesperson said on Monday.
He said the measure aims to strengthen accountability and accountability for sensitive matters. The spokesperson stressed that recent judicial instructions highlighted the need for greater responsibility in police media interactions.
“Irresponsible statements or casual remarks about ongoing cases may directly affect the proceedings,” the spokesperson explained. “Officials’ responsibility to handle sensitive investigations will be further enhanced when requests for prior approval are made.”
Officials confirmed that violations of media policies will lead to departmental action.
“The focus of media policy is to ensure quality, accurate and constructive information can attract both the public and the media,’’
Punjab police media and social media policies were introduced to ensure that police communication remains professional, transparent and constructive. It aims to curb officials’ abuse of social media platforms and avoid speculative or premature statements to compromise investigations.
Under this policy, all communication with the press must be routed through designated officials or approved by senior commanders, thereby preventing conflicting narratives or politicizing police work.
Police officials stressed that the policy is not about limiting the role of the media, but rather interaction, that is, participation is responsibility and fact-based. The spokesperson reiterated: “Through the media, public awareness efforts will be effective and effective.” The policy will also support the constructive role of the media in society.
The statement concluded that police accountability will assist the media in maintaining a constructive and credible role, ultimately strengthening public trust in law enforcement.
Posted in Dawn on September 23, 2025
