Over 140 Inflammatory Social Media Posts Identified
In the aftermath of the Nagpur violence, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has identified over 140 social media posts and videos that were allegedly designed to incite communal unrest. These objectionable posts, uploaded on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube, have been flagged for their potential role in escalating tensions. Authorities have swiftly issued notices under Section 79 (3)(b) of the Information Technology Act 2000 to ensure the immediate removal of such content.
Additionally, officials have invoked Section 94 of the Indian Civil Security Code to trace and identify the real individuals operating these accounts. In collaboration with the Nagpur City Cyber Police Station, the department is actively monitoring digital platforms to prevent the spread of false, provocative, and communal content.
Attempts to Disrupt Communal Harmony
According to a statement issued by the Maharashtra Cyber Department, the purpose of these posts was to hurt religious sentiments, create division within communities, and worsen the law and order situation in the state. By misusing religious faith and sentiments, these posts aimed to provoke public outrage, escalate communal tensions, and fuel animosity among different communities.
The cyber department has emphasized that such digital incitement not only endangers social harmony but also leads to physical violence and destruction. To counteract this, law enforcement agencies are taking stringent legal actions against those responsible for spreading hate speech and misinformation online.
Extensive Damage to Public Property
The Nagpur riots have resulted in severe damage to public property, exacerbating an already volatile situation. The Maharashtra Cyber Department has assured that it will take strict legal action against individuals found guilty of spreading inflammatory content. Authorities are leveraging advanced cyber forensic techniques to trace the origins of misleading posts and prosecute those responsible.
In an effort to restore peace, the police have urged citizens to be cautious when sharing information on social media. They have advised against forwarding unverified or provocative content, warning that legal consequences may follow for those engaging in such actions.
69 Arrests Made, Including Political and Religious Figures
As part of the ongoing crackdown, 69 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. Among them are Fahim Khan, a leader of the Minority Democratic Party, and eight Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) workers. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated that strict action will be taken against those responsible for inciting violence.
Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, has affirmed that attacks on law enforcement personnel will be dealt with seriously. He assured the public that the perpetrators of violence will face the harshest legal consequences.
The violent clashes on Monday night left 33 police officers injured, including three DCP-level officers. The rioters engaged in stone-pelting, vandalism, and arson, causing extensive destruction of vehicles and property. Additionally, reports confirm that petrol bombs were used to intensify the chaos.
During the unrest, a female police officer was reportedly assaulted by rioters. According to an FIR filed by law enforcement, a group of attackers misbehaved with her and attempted to tear her uniform, highlighting the severity of the mob violence.
Triggering Event: Controversy Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb
The primary catalyst for the Nagpur violence appears to be a demonstration by VHP workers, demanding the removal of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Tensions escalated when rumors spread about the desecration of a religious ‘chadar’, igniting widespread unrest and violent clashes.
In response, local law enforcement agencies have increased vigilance across sensitive areas to prevent further escalation of communal tensions. Authorities are urging people to refrain from spreading misinformation and rely on verified news sources to prevent further panic and violence.
Maharashtra Cyber Department’s Warning to Social Media Users
As digital platforms play a significant role in disseminating information, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has issued a stern warning to users. The public has been advised to verify content before sharing it on social media platforms. Spreading misinformation, hate speech, or any form of incitement can lead to criminal prosecution.
The department also encouraged citizens to report misleading content to authorities. Dedicated helplines and online reporting portals have been established to flag suspicious or inflammatory digital content.
Legal Consequences for Those Spreading Hate Speech Online
Authorities are committed to ensuring stringent legal consequences for individuals engaged in digital hate-mongering. The Information Technology Act 2000 and other relevant laws will be strictly enforced to curb the misuse of social media and online platforms.
Potential Charges and Penalties Include:
- IT Act, Section 79(3)(b): Removal of unlawful content and prosecution of offenders.
- Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 153A and 295A: Promoting enmity between different groups and deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
- Section 505 of IPC: Statements conducing to public mischief.
- National Security Act (NSA): Possible preventive detention for individuals deemed a threat to communal harmony.
Authorities have also instructed social media platforms to cooperate in removing content that incites communal hatred. Non-compliance with these directives may result in legal action against the platforms themselves.
Appeal for Peace and Social Responsibility
As Maharashtra grapples with the aftermath of the Nagpur riots, the state administration has called for peace and restraint. Law enforcement agencies have increased security measures across sensitive areas and continue to monitor online activity for signs of further unrest.
Citizens have been urged to exercise social responsibility by avoiding inflammatory rhetoric, reporting suspicious activities, and promoting harmony among communities. The government has assured that strict actions will be taken against all perpetrators, irrespective of their political or religious affiliations.
The Maharashtra Cyber Department remains steadfast in its commitment to digital security, ensuring that misuse of social media for communal provocation is met with swift legal action. With heightened surveillance and proactive enforcement, authorities aim to prevent further escalations and restore peace and order in the state.
