Bhind Bans Provocative Social Media Posts from October 8
Bhind district administration imposes a ban on inflammatory social media content and public displays from October 8 to December 6 to ensure festive peace.
भिण्ड | दीपेंद्र बौहरे
District Administration Issues Order to Curb Inflammatory Content
The Bhind district administration has issued a significant order aimed at strengthening law and order within the district. Under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Defence Code 2023, the dissemination of provocative content on social media has been prohibited across the entire district. This measure is in effect from October 8, 2026, to December 6, 2026.
This action has been taken to maintain peace and harmony during the upcoming Dussehra and Diwali festivals. The directive was issued by the District Magistrate based on a report received from Superintendent of Police Suraj Kumar Verma. It states that using slogans or inflammatory language against any religion, person, sect, caste, or community, or forwarding such material on social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter, will be a punishable offense.
Restrictions on Public Displays and Content
The primary objective of this restriction is to ensure that digital platforms are not used to spread hate speech or misinformation, which could disrupt social harmony. The district administration has also imposed a complete ban on the use of objectionable language in cut-outs, banners, posters, flexes, hoardings, and flags displayed in public places.
The administration believes that misleading news spread through social media can hurt religious sentiments, posing a risk of disturbing public peace and causing damage to public property within the district. Such restrictions become particularly crucial during the festive season, when community sentiments can be heightened, to avoid any unnecessary tension or conflict.
Festival Season Precautions
This decision has been specifically made keeping in mind the upcoming festive season, which includes major celebrations like Dussehra and Diwali. During these periods, there is a spirit of togetherness and celebration among people, and the spread of any kind of inflammatory content could lead to social unrest.
The district administration aims to ensure that these festivals conclude in a peaceful and joyous atmosphere, without any disruptions. Officials have issued a clear warning that those violating this order will face strict legal action under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code 2023 and other relevant punitive provisions.
Call for Public Cooperation
This prohibition has been implemented with immediate effect across the entire Bhind district. The administration appeals to citizens for their cooperation in refraining from posting or displaying any objectionable content on social media and in public places, to maintain peace and law and order in the district. This step underscores the district administration's commitment to ensuring citizen safety and preserving social harmony.