Srinagar police launched a targeted offensive against digital deceit Wednesday, slapping FIRs on MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and ex-Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu for allegedly flooding social media with misleading narratives.
Backed by credible intel, the cases address content crafted to instill fear, destabilize order, and encourage lawlessness online. ‘Content analysis shows baseless assertions poised to fracture public peace and unity,’ the police briefing outlined.
Such orchestrated fake news efforts critically endanger peace and stability, authorities asserted. FIR numbers 02/2026 and 03/2026 now stand registered at Cyber Police Station per BNS 197(1)(d) and 353(1)(b), with swift investigative steps initiated.
Upholding their mandate, police implored citizens: authenticate info from official outlets prior to posting, shunning anything divisive. Legal hammer will drop on offenders.
In tandem, third-day restrictions blanket Kashmir Valley; schools, colleges, universities shuttered till March 7, alongside exam postponements at Kashmir University. This synchronized clampdown addresses both virtual and real-world risks.
Viewed broader, the action underscores escalating concerns over social media’s role in volatile zones. With prominent names implicated, it could reshape discourse norms for public figures, reinforcing that unchecked posts carry consequences.