The Cyber Police in Kannur have registered a case after a social media account allegedly supporting Left parties shared a video claiming to show the explosion of a country-made bomb, officials said on Monday.
Case registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
According to police, the case has been booked under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause a riot.
The action was taken by the Kannur Cyber Police on Sunday, following a report submitted by the Special Branch Intelligence Wing to the Kannur City Police Commissioner.
Instagram reel sparks concern
As per the FIR, an Instagram reel was posted from an account named Red Army Kannur, showing visuals purportedly depicting a country bomb explosion. Police stated that after the reel was shared, activists allegedly associated with the CPI(M) and the Muslim League posted threatening comments against each other under the video.
Investigators said these exchanges amounted to an attempt to incite communal or political unrest, especially given the sensitive local context.
Link to post-election violence
Police noted that the reel surfaced in the aftermath of clashes between UDF and LDF activists in different parts of Kannur district following recent local body election results. Authorities believe the timing and content of the video could aggravate tensions and disturb public order.
Probe into authenticity and account handlers
Kannur Cyber Police said they would approach Meta to obtain details about the individuals operating the Instagram account. Officials are also verifying whether the explosion shown in the video actually took place or if the visuals were misleading or fabricated.
A senior police officer said strict action would be taken if the content was found to be deliberately provocative or false.
Police urge caution on social media
The incident has once again highlighted the role of social media in amplifying tensions during politically sensitive periods. Police have urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified or inflammatory content online, warning that such actions could invite serious legal consequences.
The investigation is ongoing.