NEW DELHI: The Delhi Police has blocked nearly 480 Pakistan-based social media handles accused of spreading fake news and misleading content related to the ongoing student protests, officials said on Thursday. According to the police, the accounts were allegedly engaged in circulating fabricated videos, edited images, and false claims aimed at escalating tensions during demonstrations linked to examination-related grievances.
The action comes at a time when student protests have intensified in several parts of the country, with demonstrators demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. Security agencies have been closely monitoring online activity to identify content that could provoke violence or spread panic among the public.
Police Say Misinformation Was Being Amplified
Senior Delhi Police officials stated that cyber teams detected a large number of social media accounts originating from Pakistan that were allegedly posting misleading narratives surrounding the protests. The content reportedly included manipulated visuals, false casualty claims, and misleading descriptions of events taking place on the ground.
Officials said these accounts attempted to amplify confusion by sharing unverified information at a time when emotions were already running high. After verification, authorities initiated steps to block approximately 480 such handles and continue monitoring digital platforms for similar activity.
Police stressed that misinformation shared on social media has the potential to inflame public sentiment, particularly during sensitive situations involving large gatherings and demonstrations.
Cyber Monitoring Intensified
Authorities said cyber experts are working round the clock to identify coordinated online campaigns that could threaten public order. Besides blocking the identified accounts, law enforcement agencies are also analysing the origin, reach, and methods used to spread misleading content.
Officials appealed to citizens to avoid forwarding unverified posts and to rely only on information released through official government or police channels. They warned that individuals deliberately spreading fake news could face legal action under applicable laws.
According to investigators, the objective is not only to curb misinformation but also to prevent attempts by foreign actors to exploit domestic issues for propaganda purposes.
Student Protests Continue Across Cities
The blocking of the social media handles coincides with widespread student protests over examination-related issues. Demonstrations have taken place in multiple cities, with students demanding transparency, accountability, and reforms in the examination system.
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In Delhi, protests witnessed heavy security deployment, barricading, and occasional clashes between demonstrators and police personnel. Political leaders from opposition parties also expressed support for the protesting students, adding further attention to the movement.
Police have maintained that while peaceful protests are permitted within legal limits, any attempt to incite violence or disturb public order through misinformation will be dealt with firmly.
Officials Appeal for Responsible Social Media Use
Delhi Police urged social media users to verify information before sharing it online. Authorities advised people to cross-check viral videos, photographs, and messages with credible news organisations or official statements.
Officials emphasised that fake content can spread rapidly during high-profile events, making it difficult to distinguish facts from fabricated narratives. They encouraged citizens to report suspicious or misleading posts to cybercrime authorities for prompt verification and action.
The police also reiterated that digital platforms have a responsibility to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in removing harmful and misleading content that could threaten public safety.
Investigation Continues
The investigation into the alleged misinformation campaign remains ongoing, with agencies examining whether additional foreign-linked accounts were involved in coordinated efforts to influence public discourse surrounding the protests.
Officials indicated that further action may be taken if more accounts are found violating Indian laws or attempting to spread false information. Authorities continue to monitor developments both on the ground and across digital platforms to ensure that public order is maintained while allowing lawful democratic expression.
The latest crackdown reflects the government’s broader effort to counter online misinformation during sensitive national events, while ensuring that public debate is based on verified facts rather than manipulated or fabricated content.
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