Mira Road communal clash: Cybercops on alert for fake clips

Cops and Rapid Action Force members were posted at Naya Nagar in Mira Road in the wake of the clash. Pic/Hanif Patel

In the wake of a clash between two groups at Mira Road recently, videos and messages related to the incident are being shared on social media platforms. The Maharashtra cyber cell and local police, in light of this, are keeping track of fake videos and messages to crack down on mischief-makers. The Maharashtra cyber cell has found around 15 such posts with videos and messages. The details of the same were shared with the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar (MBVV) police, who will take appropriate action.

"Our team is active on different social media platforms and keeping a tab on the circulation or posting of unwanted, fake and inauthentic posts. To date, we have found 15 posts that were being circulated to spread fake news among the masses. As we couldn't act, we have shared the information with local bodies, who will take appropriate action," said Yashasvi Yadav, inspector general, Maharashtra cyber cell. Yadav appealed to citizens to avoid circulating such unverified messages on social media. "Sharing information that is inauthentic is also a crime," he said.

Zero tolerance
After the clashes, the MBVV police formed a team, which is scrutinising social media posts. "Once, we find fake news, we will take strict action against those who share it. Everyone has the right to speak their mind on social media. But if you are sharing fake information and videos to create mischief, action will be taken under the Indian Penal Code and Information Technology Act," said a senior police officer from the MBVV police commissionerate.

On Sunday night, after the incident took place, a young man created a video where he used harsh and obscene language. "After the clip went viral, the police caught hold of the individual and action was taken against him. He has apologised for his actions," said a police officer. The MBVV police also released and statement on social media about the violence, stating that a case had been registered in the matter against the people concerned after gathering evidence and people had also been arrested.

Situation under control
Meanwhile, the MBVV police said on social media that the situation in the area was normal. "So, people should avoid circulating messages, videos and posts related to Naya Nagar that can cause trouble. Every citizen should be responsible and if they find any such post, they can inform the police. Action will be taken against the culprits," said a police officer.

Just like MBVV police, the Maharashtra cyber cell, Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and other police stations have circulated messages warning citizens not to circulate unverified posts. The authorities also batted for brotherhood and unity, stressing the fact that all citizens were Indians first and foremost.