City police warn against spreading false, hateful content online

Mangaluru: In response to a surge in communal, false, misleading and threatening content circulating on social media platforms, Mangaluru City police issued a stern advisory urging responsible online behaviour.

City police commissioner Anupam Agrawal warned that some individuals exploit platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to spread fake news, incite communal tensions, and issue threats. "These acts are serious violations of the law and are being dealt with strictly," he said.

In the past week, police registered over 30 cases related to inflammatory and false posts. A dedicated special team, operating under the supervision of the assistant commissioner of police (ACP), CEN crime police station, is investigating these cases.

The commissioner noted that authorities are coordinating with social media companies, national agencies, and international coordination channels to track down offenders, regardless of where their accounts originate. He also cautioned that many young users, unaware of the legal implications, risk long-term consequences, including criminal records that could hamper their careers, education, and travel prospects.

Urging citizens to refrain from posting or forwarding messages that promote hate, fear, or misinformation, the police appealed for public cooperation. Suspicious content can be reported to the nodal officer, ACP CEN, at 9480802321. Identities of informants will be kept confidential. "Social media should be used responsibly. Don't let a moment's mistake ruin your future," Agrawal said.

Regarding offences and punishments, the advisory stated that promoting enmity between groups can lead to imprisonment of up to five years, a fine, or both. Those inciting riots or violence may face imprisonment of up to six months, a fine, or both. Individuals found guilty of issuing threats could be punished with up to seven years of imprisonment, a fine, or both. Hate speech, whether through spoken words or online content, can attract a punishment of up to two years of imprisonment, a fine, or both. Spreading false information or fake news is punishable with imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

To preserve public order and prevent repeated offences, the city police are initiating preventive action under sections 126 and 129 of the BNSS. Concerned accused persons are being bonded over, which means they must sign a legal bond promising good conduct for a fixed period. If they violate this bond and commit another offence during this period, they will be liable to pay a monetary penalty or face imprisonment under the law.