Cyber police serves 80 notices; book 8 violators misusing social media

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

The police are closely monitoring controversial posts made or uploaded on social media regarding various religious, political, and other issues. So far, over 80 individuals in the city who have posted or commented on controversial content have been summoned to the police commissioner’s office and warned. Besides, 506 posts have been deleted.

There is currently a controversy in the state regarding Aurangzeb’s tomb. With political parties and various organisations taking sides, contentious reactions have been surfacing, which is reflected on social media. Recently, two groups of youths in the city had a dispute over a post on Instagram about a film. One group reached the young man’s house and threatened to kill him if he did not delete the post. The social media cell of the Cyber Police Station is continuously monitoring and tracking profiles involved in posting controversial or religiously sensitive content.

Tools and Hashtags for investigation

The Cyber Cell uses various tools and hashtags to track controversial posts and comments. Once they identify the profiles involved, the police take action to delete the posts.

In serious cases, 84 individuals who posted or commented on contentious content have been summoned to the commissioner’s office and warned.

506 objectionable posts deleted

According to Police Inspector Shivcharan Pandhare of the Cyber Police Station, eight cases have been registered for posts that could create social unrest. Besides, 506 objectionable posts have been deleted, and social media is being closely monitored.

Charges under these sections

BNS 299 - Insulting any class's religion or religious beliefs with malicious intent.

Punishment: Up to 3 years in prison, a fine, or both.

BNS 352 - Deliberately insulting any person and provoking them, which could disrupt public peace.

Punishment: Up to 2 years in prison, a fine, or both.

Immediate Action

If anyone comes across controversial or objectionable posts or comments on any page or personal account on social media, they are urged to immediately send the link or screenshot via WhatsApp at mobile number 9226514017 or directly contact the Cyber Police Station, appealed the police inspector Shivcharan Pandhare to the citizens.