Odisha DSP asked to revert hair colour after photos go viral

An Odisha police officer has been directed to revert to his natural hair colour after photographs of him in uniform, sporting bright red hair, went viral on social media and triggered widespread online discussion.

According to a report by The Times of India, Deputy Superintendent of Police Rashmi Ranjan Das, 49, currently posted in Jagatsinghpur district, about 60 km east of Bhubaneswar, was issued a formal warning by the police headquarters on Thursday. Das is known locally for his record against organised crime.

The directive was issued by Satyajit Naik, Inspector General of Police (Central Range), after the images circulated widely online, attracting memes, criticism and debate about professional decorum within the police force.


“One in the police force should respect the uniform and accord utmost priority to discipline and public decorum,” Naik said, adding that action was taken as soon as the matter came to his notice.

Online reactions were sharply critical, with several posts questioning whether such an appearance was appropriate for a uniformed officer and whether it aligned with the seriousness and authority associated with the police uniform.

In Jagatsinghpur, however, public opinion appeared divided. Some local residents defended the officer, citing his effectiveness in dealing with criminal elements. “He is a terror for criminals,” said Prabodh Pradhan, a local resident, adding that professional efficiency should not be judged by appearance.

Police sources told The Times of India that Das, who is now posted with the human rights protection cell, had earlier ignored informal advice to tone down his appearance. “We often advised him to dye his hair black, which is acceptable and appropriate, but he ignored our advice,” a colleague was quoted as saying.

Retired police officer S N Swain said that while the police manual does not explicitly prescribe hairstyles, it does emphasise simplicity and propriety in appearance.

Das declined to comment on the matter. The directive from the police leadership, however, underscored the emphasis placed on uniformity and discipline within the force.

With inputs from TOI