In a bold push to uphold law and order, the Hubballi-Dharwad Police have launched an aggressive campaign against rowdy sheeters misusing social media to flaunt criminal behavior and intimidate the public.

Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar, in a press briefing on Wednesday, disclosed that more than 58 individuals have been booked across 25+ cases. This follows intense monitoring of over 700 social media profiles. The offenders had been glorifying crime, posting provocative content, and in some cases, hosting birthday bashes on public roads to boost their notoriety.

“Such posts glamorize crime and risk pulling vulnerable youth into a dangerous path,” said Shashikumar. He stressed that the police will not allow social media to become a tool for fearmongering or lawlessness. Some offenders also encouraged their followers to share this content, further spreading the menace.

The crackdown is backed by dedicated monitoring teams, scanning platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for violent, inflammatory, or disturbing content. Police aim to dismantle the digital influence of known troublemakers and are working to prevent public fear and unrest triggered through online messaging.

This sustained operation sends a strong message: digital platforms will not be safe havens for anti-social behavior. Monitoring will continue, and offenders will be dealt with under stringent legal provisions.