Lucknow: Two persons were arrested in UP’s Shamli for allegedly posting ‘inflammatory content’ related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict on their WhatsApp accounts.
According to police, Farman Haider, 24, and Farman Malik, 26, both residents of Kairana, expressed their support for Palestine through WhatsApp posts. These were seen as potentially ‘detrimental to religious and social harmony’ as the Indian government has expressed support for Israel.
Acting on inputs, police booked the duo and initiated legal proceedings. Kairana station house officer Virendra Kasana said a case was registered under IPC sections 153A (Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion) and 505(2) (Publishing content concerning conflicts) on Saturday.
As tensions rise during the West Asian conflict, police and administration are on high alert. Authorities have instructed police to exercise extra caution. There is increased monitoring of social media platforms to deter individuals from posting any provocative content related to the conflict.
Additional superintendent of police (ASP), Shamli, OP Singh said, “It’s the duty of police to ensure action against those who post inflammatory content which can incite violence or disrupt harmony. Regular instructions are also given to officers in this regard.”
