AIIMS Delhi bans unauthorized branding and patient info on social media
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has issued a comprehensive social media policy prohibiting students, resident doctors, faculty, and staff from using the institution's name, logo, or patient information without authorization. The policy, issued by the Registrar’s office on June 22, aims to ensure responsible online conduct and protect the reputation of the medical institute.
Under the new guidelines, individuals and affiliated groups are strictly barred from using "the name, logo, emblem, or official branding of AIIMS New Delhi" for social media accounts, promotional campaigns, posters, videos, or other public-facing content without prior approval. This restriction extends to event posters, banners, and social media handles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter that might suggest official representation.
The policy also targets content creation, specifically banning the use of AIIMS branding in reels, videos, or blogs used for promotional purposes. Any approved use of the name or logo must strictly align with the official branding standards prescribed by the institute.
In addition to branding restrictions, AIIMS has placed strict limitations on sharing patient-related information online. The policy mandates that no content, including photographs, videos, or specific details regarding patient care, should be posted if it compromises patient privacy or confidentiality.
The guidelines also prohibit the dissemination of materials that are defamatory, discriminatory, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate. Furthermore, student associations, clubs, committees, and departments running social media accounts are now required to register their handles with the authorities and identify specific administrators responsible for managing the content.
Academic misconduct is also addressed, with the policy barring plagiarism and the sharing of examination-related material on digital platforms. Accounts linked to the institute must also avoid political, religious, and defamatory content.
AIIMS warned that failure to comply with these rules could lead to disciplinary action and legal consequences. Penalties for violations range from warnings and the suspension of privileges to the withdrawal of recognition and potential legal action in serious cases. The institute has reserved the right to monitor social media activity and issue takedown notices for non-compliant content.
