Leh: Social media users asked to refrain from spreading fake news, instigating messages

Leh, Mar 01: The district administration Leh has advised people particularly social media users to refrain from the misuse of social media.

In a bid to maintain public order and security, the District Administration Leh has issued a stern warning against the dissemination of fake news and instigating messages by citizens on social media platforms particularly WhatsApp.

An order in this regard has been issued by the District Magistrate, Leh Santosh Sukhdeve, under Section 144 of the CRPC due to concerns about fake news & instigating messages on social media, especially WhatsApp.

"Whereas, it has been made to appear to me by inputs from District Police Leh and also otherwise that fake news and instigating messages are being shared on social media platforms, especially WhatsApp groups, which may lead to breach of peace and order in the district and may result in law-and-order situation, and Whereas, it is desirable that any such possible breach of peace and public tranquility should immediately be prevented".

"Now, therefore, I, Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, District Magistrate, Leh, in exercise of powers vested in me under section 144 of CrPC, 1973, hereby prohibit the individuals in Leh District from posting/sharing any such post/message that has the potential to disturb the communal harmony/peace/tranquillity which may lead to law-and-order situation in the district" the order reads. Further, it shall be the responsibility of Admins of WhatsApp Groups/Social Media Platforms to monitor and filter such content immediately.

Any violation of this order shall invite punitive action under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code 1860" it further said.