Delhi Police Files FIR Over Abusive Posts Targeting PM Modi

The Delhi Police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against seven to eight social media handles for allegedly posting derogatory, malicious and defamatory content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The case was registered by the Special Cell's Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit.

The IFSO unit has also sought complete details of the account holders from social media platform X. The platform has been directed to remove or disable access to the identified posts within three hours of receiving the notices. Additionally, X has been asked to preserve all related electronic records, including logs and subscriber information, to assist the investigation.

The FIR has been registered under Sections 351(3), 353(2), and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case stems from a complaint alleging that objectionable content targeting constitutional authorities was being circulated on X. Investigators are examining whether the posts attract offences under the BNS and other applicable legal provisions.

Some of the social media posts under scrutiny were uploaded during and after the July 20 Sansad Chalo protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party. The posts contained abusive language directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and security personnel. At least 65 protesters and more than 200 police personnel were injured during clashes that took place during the protest.

As part of the investigation, the Delhi Police has sought complete subscriber details of the accounts under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The information sought includes names, addresses, contact details, email IDs, and login and logout records with date and time stamps.

The IFSO unit has also issued notices to X under the Information Technology Act and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, directing the platform to disable access to several identified URLs. The notices state that the content allegedly contained false, manipulated and objectionable material intended to defame public personalities.

The police said the investigation is underway and that further action will be taken based on digital evidence. The crackdown on online content is a significant step towards maintaining public order and preventing the spread of misinformation.

The incident highlights the importance of regulating online content and the need for social media platforms to take responsibility for the content shared on their platforms. The Delhi Police's actions are a step towards ensuring that online content does not harm the reputation, dignity, and public image of individuals, especially public figures like the Prime Minister.

In conclusion, the Delhi Police's decision to register an FIR against social media handles for abusive posts targeting PM Modi is a significant move towards maintaining public order and preventing the spread of misinformation. The investigation is ongoing, and further action will be taken based on digital evidence.