Mumbai: Maharashtra Cyber Department, under the office of special inspector general of police, registered a formal FIR against several social media users for posting a defamatory video aimed at inciting public unrest and harming the reputation of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
The officials have been actively monitoring social media platforms to identify and act against objectionable content that could potentially disrupt public order or harm societal values. In line with its ongoing vigilance, the department filed a formal complaint on behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against several social media users for posting defamatory content.
Complaint against 12 social media users
The complaint specifically involves 12 social media users across popular platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. These users, identified by their usernames as Bharat Bhavla Shinde (@Bs131B), Suddhodhan Sahajrao (@Suddhodhan74629), Nagpur Congress Sevadal (@SevadaINGP), Saurabh Shingh Chauhan (@Sbchauhan0103), Mukesh Lavhale (@MukeshLavhale), suressh.kale, Prasad Salvi, Varad Kanki, Amol Kamble, Syed Saleem, THE SMART 230K, and Vishnu Bhotkar, are accused of sharing a manipulated and incomplete video, as reported by MidDay.
The video in question has been deliberately edited to misrepresent Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. The content falsely claimed that the Chief Minister does not believe in the Constitution of India, democracy, or any constitutional body. The video further suggested that he aims to establish a parallel state. This misleading and maliciously edited video has been shared by certain individuals and groups, leading to the spread of derogatory and abusive comments. These actions are seen as attempts to incite societal unrest and stir emotions, particularly targeting specific groups within the state.
FIR registered
In response to this issue, Maharashtra Cyber registered a FIR under CR No. 22/2024, citing multiple sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, and the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. These sections relate to defamation, the spreading of false information, and creating disturbances that could lead to a law and order situation.
Maharashtra Cyber also issued notices to various social media platforms, requesting them to provide details about the users behind the offensive posts. The department has made it clear that it will take strong legal action against those responsible for posting such harmful content.
