In a significant move to maintain public order and communal harmony, the District Magistrate Jammu has imposed restrictions on the posting and circulation of inflammatory and misleading content on social media platforms across the district for a period of 60 days.
As per an official order issued by District Magistrate Dr. Rakesh Minhas, IAS, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, as per news agency, the decision has been taken in view of the increasing misuse of digital platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and Telegram for spreading provocative, false and communally sensitive content.
The order strictly prohibits uploading, sharing or forwarding any material text, images, videos or audio that promotes enmity, hatred or ill-will among communities on the basis of religion, race, caste, language or region. It also bans dissemination of fake, fabricated or misleading information, morphed visuals, out-of-context content, and any posts inciting violence, boycott calls or targeting specific communities.
The administration has warned that violations will attract strict legal action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Information Technology Act 2000, and other applicable laws, including registration of FIRs.
Citizens have been advised not to forward unverified or sensitive content and to report such material to police or cyber units immediately. Social media group administrators and intermediaries have also been made accountable for monitoring and reporting objectionable content on their platforms.
The order further directs the Senior Superintendent of Police, Jammu, and the Cyber Crime Unit to ensure round-the-clock monitoring of online platforms, while special monitoring cells will be set up at sub-divisional levels for effective enforcement.
The restrictions have come into force with immediate effect and will remain applicable for 60 days, unless modified or withdrawn earlier. (KNC)
