Copyright newskarnataka
Mangaluru: Despite repeated warnings and strict legal measures, a few individuals in Mangaluru continue to post hate-filled and communal content on social media, prompting the police to tighten surveillance across the district. Authorities said the move comes after a recent surge in inflammatory posts circulating through fake accounts. The Mangaluru city police have now assigned personnel at every station to monitor online platforms regularly and take prompt action against offenders. Fresh wave of hate posts after previous crackdown Police said that during the months of April and May, following a murder in the district, several social media posts and stories were shared widely, spreading communal sentiments and misinformation. Swift and strict police action had brought the situation under control, but in recent weeks, similar content has begun resurfacing. “After the earlier incidents, there was a marked improvement in online conduct. However, some people have started posting provocative content again through fake IDs. We have already registered fresh cases,” a senior officer said. Police tighten vigilance and monitoring To counter the renewed trend, all police stations in Mangaluru have been directed to strengthen their surveillance of online activities. Officers and staff are checking social media platforms during their spare time and reporting any objectionable content immediately. Mangaluru city police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy stated that suo motu cases — cases registered by the police on their own initiative — are being filed against those posting or sharing hate-filled or communal material. The cybercrime division is actively investigating these cases and tracing the individuals behind fake accounts. “Several cases have already been registered against people spreading hate online. Police personnel from every station are conducting regular checks. Any content that disturbs public peace, provokes communal feelings, spreads hatred, or defames others will lead to suo motu registration of cases,” Commissioner Reddy said. Public urged to use social media responsibly The police have reminded citizens that while social media is a powerful medium for information exchange, it can also cause serious harm if misused. Authorities emphasised that posting or even sharing provocative videos, hate messages, or misinformation — especially through fake identities — is a punishable offence under the Information Technology Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The police further warned that fake social media accounts used to spread hate can be easily traced through digital forensics. They urged users to exercise restraint, verify information before sharing, and report suspicious or communal content to the authorities. Cybercrime teams on alert Cybercrime police in Mangaluru have increased their focus on identifying patterns of fake account creation and coordinated misinformation campaigns. Technical experts are assisting in tracking IP addresses and analysing online activity to locate the offenders. Officials said the department is also working on awareness initiatives to educate youth and social media users about responsible online behaviour and the consequences of spreading hate or false information. Maintaining communal harmony a priority Mangaluru has witnessed communal tensions in the past, and the police are determined to prevent a recurrence. With increased social media monitoring and stricter enforcement, the department aims to ensure that peace and communal harmony are maintained in the region. Authorities have reiterated that anyone attempting to disturb public order or exploit social media platforms for divisive purposes will face swift and severe legal consequences.
