JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The district administration in Jammu has taken a major step against those sharing fake news, inflammatory posts, edited videos, and content that disturbs communal harmony on social media. District Magistrate Dr. Rakesh Minhas has issued an order under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Services Code, 2023, completely banning the dissemination of any content on the internet that could disturb law and order or communal harmony.
The administration has made it clear that no one will share any message, video, photo, audio, or meme on platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X, or YouTube that spreads hatred or incites tension against any religion, caste, community, or region. Anyone found doing so will face strict legal action.
The order states that cases of spreading fake and inflammatory content through social media have increased rapidly in recent times. Old photos and videos are often made viral as new. Sometimes, incidents are distorted, creating confusion and fear among the public. The administration states that such activities can pose a threat to peace and harmony in a sensitive and diverse district like Jammu.
According to the order, appealing for boycotts against any community, threatening any individual or group, inciting violence, or attempting to gather illegal crowds and processions through social media will now be considered serious offenses. Anyone attempting to incite or gather people through posts or videos will be prosecuted.
The district administration has also warned those running social media groups. Administrators and moderators of WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages, Telegram channels, or other online forums must ensure that no inflammatory or false content is shared on their platforms. If they fail to prevent such content, action will be taken against them.
The administration has appealed to the public to verify the authenticity of any photo, video, or message before forwarding it. If anyone sees any suspicious, inflammatory, or false content, they should immediately report it to the nearest police station or cybercrime unit. The administration states that only public vigilance can prevent rumors and tension.
Those found guilty under various sections of the Information Technology Act 2000 and the Indian Civil Security Code face penalties ranging from three to seven years in prison and fines. The district administration has clearly stated that social media is a medium of expression, but it cannot be used to spread hatred or disrupt the atmosphere in society.
