Authorities Prohibit Posting Of ‘Provocative’ Messages On Social Media In Jammu

Authorities in Jammu district have implemented prohibitory orders to curb the dissemination of provocative content on social media platforms. This action follows the recent grant of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Pahari community in Jammu and Kashmir.

Home Minister Amit Shah reassured that the ST status for the Pahari community would not impact the existing reservations for the Gujjars and Bakerwals, who are already recognized as Scheduled Tribes. However, concerns persist that certain elements may exploit the situation to incite unrest.

Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), the District Magistrate of Jammu issued an order instructing social media news portals to refrain from sharing messages that could endanger communal harmony, disrupt peace, or disturb public tranquility.

The order highlighted the dissemination of derogatory and discriminatory content on social media platforms, which poses a grave risk to human lives and property. It emphasized the immediate necessity to prevent any potential breach of peace and public order.

The directive, effective immediately, warns of punitive measures under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, for any violations. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony in the region amidst evolving social dynamics.