Mangaluru: In a development related to the aftermath of the Suhas Shetty murder case, police have arrested a 22-year-old young man for allegedly sharing communally provocative content on social media in the days following the incident last year.
The accused, identified as Pavan Acharya, is a resident of Moodubelle village in Kapu taluk of Udupi district. Authorities stated that he had been operating a social media account under the name “TN-MADDY,” through which the objectionable posts were allegedly circulated.
Arrest based on cyber evidence
According to police officials, the arrest was made by the Kankanady Town Police on March 25 after gathering additional digital evidence through cyber surveillance and analysis. The investigation revealed that the accused had posted and promoted content deemed inflammatory and capable of disturbing communal harmony.
The police had earlier registered a case at Kapu Police Station in Udupi district under Crime No. 95/2025. The case pertained specifically to the circulation of provocative material on social media platforms.
Officials noted that the cyber team played a key role in tracing the account activity and linking it to the accused, ultimately leading to his arrest.
Produced before court, remanded to custody
Following his arrest, Pavan Acharya was produced before a local court, which remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody. Police sources confirmed that further investigation is underway to determine the extent of content dissemination and whether others were involved in amplifying the posts.
Authorities are also examining the reach and impact of the social media activity, particularly in the sensitive period following the murder case, when tensions were already heightened.
Background: Suhas Shetty murder case
The arrest comes in connection with developments following the Suhas Shetty murder case, which had drawn significant attention in the coastal region. While the murder investigation is being handled separately, police have been closely monitoring online activity to prevent the spread of misinformation and communal unrest.
Law enforcement agencies have reiterated that strict action will be taken against individuals who attempt to misuse social media platforms to incite divisions or spread provocative narratives.
Police appeal for responsible online behaviour
Police officials have urged citizens to exercise caution and responsibility while using social media. Sharing unverified or inflammatory content, especially in sensitive cases, can have serious legal consequences and may disrupt public order.
They emphasised that digital platforms are under constant monitoring, and any content found to be in violation of the law will be dealt with strictly.
Conclusion
The arrest highlights the increasing vigilance of law enforcement agencies in tackling misuse of social media, particularly in cases with communal sensitivity. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on maintaining peace and ensuring that digital platforms are not used to incite unrest.