MANGALURU: Police in Mangaluru have detained Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) regional joint secretary Sharan Pumpwell after he allegedly shared a provocative post on Facebook, officials confirmed on Friday. The post reportedly contained a video clip of a speech by an RSS leader that authorities deemed potentially inflammatory.
Case registered over social media post
According to Mangaluru City Police, an FIR was registered after the post was flagged for containing content that could incite communal tension. The video was reportedly shared on Pumpwell’s personal Facebook account and gained quick traction online before being deleted.
Police sources said that upon learning about the FIR, Pumpwell deleted the post and voluntarily appeared before the Kadri Police Station. He was then issued a notice to attend the investigation scheduled for Monday.
Previous bond forfeiture proceedings initiated
Authorities also stated that proceedings have been initiated to forfeit a bond executed by Pumpwell in connection with an earlier case. The bond was part of a preventive measure requiring him to maintain peace and good conduct.
Senior officials said the content shared was under scrutiny to determine if it violated provisions related to promoting enmity or disturbing public harmony under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Information Technology Act.
Political leaders visit police station
Following Pumpwell’s detention, BJP MLA Vedavyas Kamath and Dakshina Kannada BJP president Satish Kumpala visited the police station to inquire about the case and extend support. Several members of Hindu organisations also gathered outside the station in protest, demanding his release.
Police managed the situation by deploying additional personnel to prevent any untoward incidents. Talks between the leaders and police officials were ongoing till late evening.
Police maintain calm amid protests
Mangaluru Police Commissionerate assured that law and order remain under control. “We are investigating the case as per legal procedures. Citizens are urged not to share or promote any content that could harm communal harmony,” a senior officer said.
The authorities have also urged social media users to exercise restraint and verify facts before sharing posts that could be misconstrued or provoke unrest.