Srinagar, Pakistan-administered Kashmir – In a significant move to safeguard public order and maintain law enforcement, Srinagar Police have taken stringent action against the deliberate dissemination of false and misleading content on social and electronic media. Officials report that certain individuals, media outlets, and online accounts have engaged in spreading distorted narratives with the potential to provoke unrest and disrupt communal harmony.
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The police described these disinformation campaigns as malicious and organized, emphasizing their threat to peace, societal stability, and regional security. This development comes at a time when public attention is already heightened due to recent international and regional events, making vigilance against misleading content particularly crucial.
Official Statements and Legal Action
According to the official statement, the police have registered FIRs against Member of Indian Parliament from Jammu Kashmir Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and former Srinagar Municipal Corporation Mayor Junaid Azim Mattoo. These cases, filed under FIR numbers 02/2026 and 03/2026, invoke provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 197(1)(d) and 353(1)(b) at the Cyber Police Station, Srinagar. Investigations into these cases are actively ongoing.
A police spokesperson told media:
“The targeted content appears to deliberately propagate unverified and distorted narratives, creating public anxiety and threatening societal cohesion. Immediate legal action is essential to ensure that peace and law enforcement are not compromised.”
The statement further clarified that multiple social media profiles and accounts have already been identified, and the individuals responsible have been summoned for questioning by the cyber cell. Authorities reiterated that any person found contributing to such activities would face strict legal consequences.
The Srinagar Police emphasized their commitment to preserving law, order, and public safety across the valley. Security and cyber monitoring have been intensified to prevent further circulation of misleading or incendiary information.
Officials have also issued clear instructions to the public:
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Verify all content before sharing, using official or trusted sources only.
Avoid circulating rumors, unverified claims, or provocative material that could undermine social harmony or public order.
Report suspicious or potentially harmful content to the authorities immediately.
Experts note that in regions like India-administered Kashmir, even minor disinformation can escalate tensions and impact communal trust, underscoring the importance of responsible online conduct.
The crackdown illustrates the increasing awareness among authorities regarding the power of digital misinformation. In recent years, social media platforms have emerged as both tools for information dissemination and vectors for propaganda, communal tension, and unrest. By acting decisively, the Srinagar Police aim to deter further attempts to exploit online channels for spreading fear or discord.
Local community leaders have highlighted the importance of maintaining social cohesion during politically sensitive periods. They welcomed the police action, noting that while citizens have the right to information, the responsible sharing of verified news is critical for maintaining public safety.
Public Advisory and Community Responsibility
The police have reiterated that maintaining public trust and peace is a collective responsibility. Citizens are advised to:
Exercise caution on digital platforms.
Cross-check information before sharing.
Support authorities by refraining from disseminating unverified content.
Failure to comply could result in strict legal repercussions, including FIR registration and further investigation. By following these guidelines, the community can help prevent unnecessary tension or panic in sensitive areas.
Srinagar Police have confirmed that ongoing investigations will continue and that additional measures may be implemented if further threats or misinformation campaigns are detected. Authorities remain committed to upholding law and order while balancing citizens’ access to information with the need to protect societal harmony.
