Lucknow, March 23 (IANS) How does one prevent hate speeches and inflammatory videos from being shared through applications like WhatsApp and on BlackBerry Messenger (BBM)? Well, that's what has stumped poll officials.
Having pronounced a strict code of conduct on use and misuse of social media during the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission (EC) is now faced with an unprecedented situation. This, officials say, is because the poll panel has not found ways to stop and prevent hate speeches, promotional campaigns or inflammatory videos from finding its way into public discourse through applications like WhatsApp and on BBM.
Senior poll panel officials confirmed the threat this poses to peaceful conduct and level playing field to all political players. They say they are in talks with the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and other security agencies to "figure out on what can be done best and swiftly".
"This is a situation we have at hand and we are trying to deal with it," confided a senior election commission official. He, however, added that the commission is working to find a solution.
For now, the police in Uttar Pradesh, has found a new way.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (Public grievances), Satish Ganesh, says people found in possession of such clips would be hauled up and booked under various sections of the Indian penal Code (IPC).
The holder of such inflammatory clips, jokes, messages, campaigns on these modules may invite serious charges as holding them will be tantamount to disruption of public peace and harmony, Ganesh told IANS.
He added they will be dividing the cases in which such complaints are received in two categories. The first category is one whose mobile phones carry such video clips and the second category is one who forwards it to others.
Both acts are punishable and people will be booked for them, an official added. The decision of the state police has the endorsement of the poll panel, which says its mandate is to "ensure peaceful elections" and "anything that contributes to this is a welcome step".
A separate cell has also been formed to keep a tab on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, and tech savvy officials have been asked to keep vigil on the material being posted on walls "across the board".
The cell will keep an eye on the FB accounts and Twitter handles of political leaders and candidates of all parties. EC officials say this has been done to ensure that no promotional campaigns without clearance from them finds its way into the virtual world.
"EC guidelines have to be adhered to in toto and we will do all that is needed for the same," said Umesh Sinha, chief electoral officer (CEO) of Uttar Pradesh.
As the poll panel and the security agencies sharpen their knives, the users will be haunted by the spectre of being booked for something so common - forwarding messages and clips!
Modi tops the world in popularity: Modi left behind the leaders of 13 countries including America; 66% of people like them
The popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains intact even after the second wave of the Corona epidemic and its ill effects in India. Modi tops the ranking of global leaders in a survey by
Cabinet approves 15,000 MW Solar Projects by NTPC
New Delhi, Feb 25 (IANS) The union cabinet Wednesday approved the setting up of 15,000 MW of grid connected solar power projects through the state-run generator NTPC under the National Solar
Modi Gets Lesser Sleep: Obama
New Delhi, Jan 25 (IANS) US President Barack Obama Sunday said he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared notes on how much sleep they get, and revealed that "Modi gets lesser
Modi government Said, Corona vaccine will give crores of Indians
The government of India plans to bring 40-50 crore corona vaccine for 20-25 crore Indians by July 2021. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has given this information on Sunday.
Tricolor insulted in Canada: Khalistani supporters trampled the national flag with their feet, also raised anti-India slogans
A disgusting act of Khalistan supporters has come to the fore in Canada. While shouting Khalistani slogans in the Canadian city of Brampton on Bandi Chhor Diwas, he also insulted India's pride and
Bengal Chunav Hinsa: PM Modi expresses concern over violence in Bengal after election results, talks to Governor over phone
The phase of violence has continued since the results of the assembly elections in Bengal. BJP houses and party offices of alleged BJP activists are being vandalized and arson in different areas.
Deoghar Airport became an arena, FIR against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, Manoj Tiwari, and party leader Kapil Mishra
There is a newly constructed airport arena in Deoghar. Deoghar district police and Godda MP Nishikant Dubey are playing FIR-FIR with each other, alleging violation of rules at this airport. He has
Mumbai Storm: Dust storm wreaks havoc in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, 100 feet tall hoarding fell; See pictures of the accident
There was a strong dust storm in Mumbai on Monday along with the first rain of this season. This storm caused devastation in the Ghatkopar area. A 100-foot-tall hoarding was
Ishan Kishan Comeback: Ishan returned to the field after BCCI's warning, flopped in batting; severe rebuke
Indian team's wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan returned to playing competitive cricket after 3 months. On Tuesday, Ishan Kishan flopped in his comeback match in the DY Patil T20 Cup 2024. He scored
Diljit Dosanjh: Diljit reacted to the news of being cozy with singer Taylor Swift, and said such a thing
Diljit Dosanjh And Taylor Swift: Punjabi and Bollywood singer Diljit Dosanjh was recently seen performing at Coachella, due to which Diljit has come into the limelight.
