Following the violence that erupted in Nagpur, Maharashtra on March 17, a significant breakthrough by the cyber cell has unveiled a troubling connection with Bangladesh. Efforts to sow discord continue on social media from across the border, with threats of larger uprisings looming. The police, responding swiftly, have charged the prime suspect, Faheem Khan, with sedition.
The Maharashtra Police have urged Facebook to immediately block these provocative accounts. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for rumors, particularly concerning the Nagpur unrest, resulting in widespread misinformation. Among the falsehoods circulated was a claim about the demise of two injured individuals, which has been under constant watch by the cyber cell.
So far, 97 such incendiary posts have been identified as attempts to disturb the public peace. The investigative police have also hinted at a premeditated gathering of rioters five hours post a VHP demonstration, fueled by the very rumors social media propagated.
Nagpur Police have named Faheem Khan and five others in charges of sedition and misinformation on social media. Including among fifty suspects, these individuals have been linked to four FIRs concerning the recent violence. DCP Lohit Matani confirmed the cyber division is pursuing information from platform executives on 230 different profiles.
Source: aajtak
As additional insights emerge, DCP claims prompt actions will follow with identities and arrests. The immediate catalyst for violence appeared to be a misinformation about VHP-led protests, where rumors spread about the desecration of sacred cloths belonging to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's gravesite, leading to clashes where 33 police personnel sustained injuries.
Faheem Khan stands accused of editing and disseminating videos that glorified violence against the protest. Additionally, these videos prompted the filing of four FIRs related to inciting violence. The situation was further exacerbated when clips from the violence were shared with the intent to provoke more public unrest.
Source: aajtak
Meanwhile, from the Barelvi community, clergy Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi urged Home Minister Amit Shah to ban the film 'Chhava', blaming it for igniting tensions that directly influenced the Nagpur chaos. Also, West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee denounced the violence, emphasizing India’s unity in diversity, reminiscing her presence on the streets post-Babri Mosque demolition.
A police officer explained that, following instructions by district administration in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, the Archaeological Survey of India had installed protective sheets around Aurangzeb's gravesite. Further safety measures included enclosing the grave to prevent future desecration, a response to previous green mesh structures that were lacking.
