Social media wing in Bengaluru to monitor fake news

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In order to combat the rampant and unabated peddling of fake news over social media, the Bengaluru police has decided to set up its own social media wing where the jurisdictional police will take strict action against those involved in circulation of misleading information.

Police Commissioner B Dayananda had earlier warned the people not to indulge in posting hate comments on social media.

"People posting content to spread hatred will be arrested immediately. We are in touch with service providers. Posts that spread hatred or harm the reputation of people will not be tolerated," he had said.

In a latest move, the police commissioner has ordered the respective police stations across Bengaluru to keep an eye on elements who attempt to disturb the peace by spreading fake news using social media platforms.

“It is being observed that a few people are involved in spreading fake news whether it is on political issues or on those aimed at disturbing peace in the society. Such posts incite the public in various ways and threaten law and order. A team has been formed in each divisional DCP office to monitor such social media accounts," Police Commissioner Dayananda said on Saturday.

"A separate team of experts will also be formed at the Bengaluru Police Commissioner Office to track the users involved in such activities," he added.

In 2020, a riot broke out at DJ Halli and KG Halli police station limits in the city over a derogatory post on social media targeting a particular religion and its beliefs.