Bhubaneswar: An Odisha Police officer has landed in the spotlight after his unconventional appearance sparked discussion online and drew an official reprimand from senior authorities. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rashmi Ranjan Das, 49, was directed by police headquarters to immediately change his bright red hair colour after photographs of him in uniform went viral on social media.
Das, currently posted in Jagatsinghpur district around 60 kilometres east of Bhubaneswar, has long been known for his tough policing style. However, it was his flaming red hair, not his law enforcement record, that triggered a wave of memes, criticism and debate earlier this week.
Formal warning issued
The issue came to the attention of senior officers on Wednesday after images of Das circulated across online platforms. By Thursday, Inspector General of Police (Central Range) Satyajit Naik issued a formal warning, instructing Das to revert to his natural hair colour without delay.
“One in the police force should respect the uniform and accord utmost priority to discipline and public decorum,” Naik said, adding that the directive was issued as soon as the matter was brought to his notice.
Personal expression versus professionalism
Online reactions were sharply divided, with several users questioning whether such a flamboyant appearance was appropriate for a uniformed officer. Some comments suggested that a flashy look undermined the authority and seriousness associated with the police uniform, while others mocked the officer’s appearance, linking it to professionalism.
In Jagatsinghpur, however, opinions were more nuanced. Several residents came out in Das’s defence, pointing to his strong track record in curbing crime. “He is a terror criminals,” said local resident Prabodh Pradhan. “Someone’s efficiency should not be judged from his or her hairstyle.”
Police sources revealed that Das had previously been informally advised to tone down his appearance. “We often advised him to dye his hair black, which is acceptable and appropriate,” a colleague said, adding that the advice was ignored.
Retired police officer S N Swain noted that while the police manual does not specify hairstyle guidelines, it emphasises simplicity. Das, who is currently attached to the human rights protection cell, declined to comment on the matter.