Odisha Police Officer's Red Hairstyle Triggers Social Media Storm and Senior Intervention
A police officer in Odisha has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy after his distinctive hairstyle went viral on social media platforms. The incident has raised questions about professional decorum within uniformed services and prompted senior officials to issue directives regarding public conduct.
Viral Video Sparks Widespread Debate
Rashmi Ranjan Das, a 49-year-old Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) currently posted in the human rights protection cell in Jagatsinghpur district, attracted significant attention when a video of him on duty circulated widely online. The footage showed Das sporting a poppy red hair colour that immediately caught the eye of social media users across various platforms.
As the video gained traction, numerous netizens began questioning whether such a hairstyle was appropriate for a police officer serving in uniform. The online discussion quickly escalated with many users posting sarcastic comments and memes about the officer's unconventional appearance while on official duty.
Senior Police Officials Issue Formal Directive
The growing social media outrage prompted Inspector General (IG) of Central Range, Satyajit Naik, to intervene in the matter. Recognizing the potential impact on public perception of police discipline, Naik issued a formal directive to DSP Das emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper decorum in public conduct.
This intervention came despite the fact that the Odisha police manual contains no specific regulations regarding hair colour for officers. Senior police officials acknowledged this technicality but stressed that broader principles of discipline and appropriate public conduct remain paramount considerations for uniformed personnel.
Background of the Officer and Ongoing Situation
Colleagues familiar with DSP Das describe him as a fearless officer with a strong reputation within the police force. According to officers who know him personally, Das has been maintaining this particular hairstyle for some time before it attracted widespread attention through social media.
The officer, known for his work in the human rights protection cell, has not publicly responded to requests for comment regarding the controversy surrounding his appearance. The situation highlights the evolving challenges law enforcement agencies face in balancing individual expression with institutional expectations of professionalism.
This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly personal appearance choices can become matters of public discussion in the digital age, particularly for government officials and uniformed personnel whose conduct is constantly under public scrutiny.
