Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar
Srinagar, Nov 15: Bandipora Police in Jammu and Kashmir have arrested a man for allegedly uploading and circulating false and misleading information on social media about the November 11 terrorist attack in Kulgam.
According to a police statement, the accused was operating a Facebook page under the name 'Bandipora Wala', through which fabricated information about the attack was circulated.
Terrorists had opened fire on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) naka party of the 46th Battalion at Akhran in Kulgam district on November 11, injuring three CRPF personnel.
Police said the misleading information came to the notice of Bandipora Police Station, following which immediate action was initiated.
"It came to the notice of Police Station Bandipora that the said Facebook page, namely 'Bandipora Wala', being operated by one Momin Ul Islam, son of Mohd Maqbool Bhat, a resident of Gund Dachina, Bandipora, had uploaded fabricated information claiming that three CRPF personnel had been killed in the attack. The circulation of such false information could create unnecessary panic, disturb peace and public confidence, and adversely affect the overall security environment," the police statement said.
Acting promptly, police identified the person operating the Facebook page and registered FIR No. 187/2026 under relevant sections of law at Bandipora Police Station. The accused was subsequently arrested, while the misleading content was removed from the Facebook page.
Bandipora Police have appealed to the public to refrain from creating, circulating or sharing unverified information, particularly concerning security-related incidents, warning that such content could trigger panic, undermine public confidence and have wider adverse consequences for society.
Citizens have been advised to rely only on verified information and official sources.
Meanwhile, authorities have cautioned that uploading or circulating false, misleading or defamatory content on social media can invite legal and civil consequences under applicable Indian laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Information Technology rules and defamation provisions.
Creating, sharing or forwarding malicious information may lead to registration of FIRs and prosecution under provisions relating to public disorder, mischief and defamation. False statements damaging the reputation of individuals or organisations may also invite civil claims for damages and criminal defamation proceedings.
Social media intermediaries are also required to follow applicable IT Rules and maintain grievance redressal mechanisms, including procedures for addressing unlawful content upon receiving appropriate notice.
Depending on the nature and severity of the offence, particularly where false information incites panic, public disorder or violence, offenders may face fines and imprisonment.