SRINAGAR, Mar 3: Srinagar Police on Tuesday registered an FIR against certain media outlets and individuals for allegedly circulating fabricated and misleading information aimed at inciting unrest in connection with protests over the reported killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
A police spokesman said authorities have taken serious cognisance of the “deliberate circulation” of false and unverified content by some news channels, media outlets and individuals across electronic and social media platforms. The FIR has been lodged at the Cyber Police Station under relevant legal provisions.
“Several profiles have been identified, and concerned individuals have been summoned to the Cyber Cell. Investigation is actively underway, and strict legal action will follow against anyone found involved,” the spokesman said.
He alleged that certain elements were “systematically attempting” to spread distorted narratives with the intent to disturb public order and create disharmony. Such misinformation campaigns pose a grave threat to peace and security, he added.
While the police did not disclose the names of the media outlets or individuals involved, they issued a warning that spreading fake news, inflammatory content or unverified information would invite stringent legal consequences.
Citizens and media organisations were advised to verify facts from official and credible sources before sharing content that could disturb communal harmony. On Monday, police had issued an advisory urging media houses to avoid speculation, rumours and sensational headlines, and to ensure reports are confirmed through authoritative sources.
Massive protests have rocked the Kashmir Valley over the killing of Khamenei in reported joint air strikes by the US and Israel early Saturday. (Agencies)
