Police target ‘propaganda peddlers’ for maintaining peace

Srinagar, Dec 8: J&K Police have decided to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards individuals spreading false propaganda, particularly those aimed at disrupting peace and influencing youth with anti-national ideologies.

“Coordinated efforts are underway to dismantle the ecosystem of misinformation and radicalisation in J&K,” a senior Police officer here said. “The individuals involved in such activities, whether through social media or on-ground networks, will face strict action.”

He said peace in J&K had been hard-earned, and any attempt to destabilise it would be dealt with firmly.

“We have observed that certain groups and individuals are deliberately spreading false information and target the youth. Such attempts will not be tolerated,” the senior Police officer said.

He said that law enforcement agencies were identifying networks actively engaged in disseminating anti-national propaganda.

“These networks, often operating anonymously on social media platforms, are using fake news and inflammatory content to radicalise impressionable minds. Every effort is being made to dismantle this ecosystem,” the senior Police officer said.

He said that the crackdown would involve monitoring digital platforms, intercepting harmful content, and prosecuting individuals found guilty under stringent laws.

“We have increased surveillance on online activities and are identifying people behind such narratives. Their time is up,” the senior Police officer said.

He said that the law enforcement agencies were also focusing on counter-radicalisation measures, offering support and guidance to the vulnerable youth.

“While punitive measures are important, we are equally focused on steering our young population away from the clutches of such propaganda. Counselling programmes, job opportunities, and skill-development initiatives are being prioritised,” another Police officer said.

At the same time, Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

“This is a collective responsibility. The people should play a role in preserving peace by rejecting divisive narratives and cooperating with law enforcement,” the Police officer said. “Misinformation spreads like wildfire. We request everyone to verify the authenticity of any content before forwarding it. Anyone found sharing anti-national propaganda will also be held accountable.”

Officials said that the crackdown would extend at all levels, targeting not just individuals but also organisations supporting such activities.

“We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that peace and stability prevail in J&K. Those who think they can destabilise things through falsehood and hatred will face the full force of the law,” the officer said.

Earlier, Greater Kashmir reported that the law enforcement agencies in J&K have intensified surveillance of social media platforms to curtail anti-national propaganda and avert adverse fallout on the peace and stability in J&K.

Senior Police officials said that around 150 social media handles were being closely monitored.

These handles are suspected to be spreading extremist ideologies and fake news, all of which are under scrutiny as part of a comprehensive strategy against terrorism.

According to officials, platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and X are being exploited to circulate anti-national propaganda, fake news, inflammatory videos, and manipulated images targeting youth.

In the past, cybercrime units identified multiple pages promoting radical ideologies and glorifying militancy.