Haryana sets up team to comb through social media, curb provocative content

Aug 12, 2023

Haryana government forms committee to monitor social media posts | Credit:

The Haryana government has constituted a committee to monitor social media platforms to prevent provocative content from circulating after clashes broke out at Nuh district in the state on July 31, which then spread to other parts of the state. The panel will coordinate with all crucial agencies to ensure corrective action on the matter. Mobile internet and SMS services in Nuh and a few other places have been suspended till August 5. However, the suspension was relaxed between 1 pm to 4 pm in certain areas on Thursday.

Nuh Superintendent of Police Varun Singla told Republic that three FIRs have been filed with regard to social media posts and more will be filed soon. "Many videos have surfaced and strict action will be taken against instigators. Also, internet suspension will continue till August 5." About the videos that are already circulating, the SP said, "We are examining all such videos and a detailed report will be put out soon."

As for the police probe into the violence in Nuh, the SP said a total of 176 arrests have been made and 93 FIRs filed in the Nuh violence.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij earlier said that social media has played a significant role in the violence in Nuh. "Social media has played a significant role in fuelling the violence in Nuh. In response to this concern, the state government has formed a three-member committee tasked with monitoring social media activities July 21 to onwards. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and others will be closely examined/scanned for any provocative posts," an official statement quoted Vij as saying.

Republic has also accessed the pictures of those accused in the violence that erupted on July 31 during a religious procession. At least six people, including two law enforcement officials, died in the clashes.

Also, as of now 19 people who were involved in the Nuh violence have been sent to judicial custody for 14 days.