In a major operation against online misinformation, Nagpur Cyber Police have scanned over 3,500 social media accounts and identified 100 individuals responsible for spreading provocative content within the last 24 hours. The crackdown comes in response to escalating communal tensions in the city.
Cyber Police Inspector Baliram Sutar confirmed that details of these individuals have been forwarded to respective police stations. “Legal action will be taken under the IT Act, along with charges related to rioting and other relevant sections,” he stated.
Social Media Sparks Unrest in Nagpur
The violence erupted on Monday, March 17, after members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal staged a protest in Mahal, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. During the demonstration, they reportedly burned a green ‘chaadar’. Shortly after, social media was flooded with claims that the ‘chaadar’, allegedly inscribed with a ‘kalma’ from the Holy Book, had been desecrated. This sparked widespread outrage within the community, leading to one of Nagpur’s most severe communal clashes in recent years.
External Social Media Influence Under Investigation
Police investigations have uncovered that, apart from local accounts, several social media profiles from outside Maharashtra were involved in amplifying provocative content. Authorities suspect that these external elements played a crucial role in inciting the mob and escalating violence.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Lohit Matani, who led the police response during the riots, confirmed that authorities are tracking these accounts and will take strict legal action against those operating from outside the state.
Authorities Warn Against Misinformation
Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal emphasized the dangerous role of social media in inciting tensions, stating that provocative videos and reels significantly contributed to the unrest. Nagpur Guardian Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule also called for strict action against those responsible for spreading inflammatory content.
Police continue to monitor digital platforms and urge citizens to verify information before sharing it. Investigations are ongoing to hold those accountable for fueling the violence.
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