Balasore: Following an alleged mob lynching incident recently and heightened reactions on social media, Balasore police on Wednesday issued a strict advisory urging citizens to refrain from spreading communal or inflammatory content online. The advisory follows the alleged lynching of a 33-year-old man belonging to a minority community on Jan 14. Police have so far arrested six persons in connection with the case, and further investigation is underway. SP Pratyush Diwakar said the advisory has been circulated to curb the misuse of social media platforms for spreading rumours, misinformation, and content targeting any particular community. He warned that stringent legal action would be taken against those found violating the guidelines. According to the advisory, citizens have been directed not to publish, share or comment on posts that could incite hatred or disturb communal harmony. People have also been encouraged to report any harmful or misleading content by sharing screenshots or links with police for prompt action. “We have observed that some individuals are misusing social media to circulate unfounded and wrongful messages, creating confusion and unrest. We request everyone to exercise restraint and not forward such posts. Strict action will be taken against violators,” Diwakar said. SP Diwakar clarified that the social media guidelines are not confined to the Sahada incident alone but are a general directive aimed at preventing the misuse of digital platforms during sensitive situations.Appealing for public cooperation, the SP said the advisory also serves as a warning to criminal and notorious elements attempting to exploit social media to provoke communal discord. He urged residents to remain vigilant, responsible, and united in maintaining peace and law and order, and to inform police immediately if any such incident comes to light.
