Brahmavar: Police have detained two persons on charges of sharing hate-filled messages on social media platforms, officials said on January 30. The action was taken following monitoring of online content and complaints regarding messages that were allegedly capable of disturbing communal harmony.
The detained individuals have been identified as K. Nagaraj (62), a resident of Koteshwar, and Santosh Kumar Shetty (56) of Waramballi in Brahmavar. Police said the messages were shared through social media platforms and contained objectionable and inflammatory content.
Action under senior officers’ supervision
The police action was carried out under the guidance of Deputy Superintendent of Police Prabhu D.T. and Brahmavar Circle Inspector Gopikrishna. Brahmavar Police Sub-Inspectors Ashok Malabaghi and Sudarshan Doddamani were also part of the team involved in the operation.
Officials said the detentions were made after preliminary verification of the social media posts and the accounts from which the messages were circulated. Police sources said further inquiry is underway to ascertain the intent behind the posts and whether they violated provisions of law relating to hate speech and public order.
Background of the accused
According to police, K. Nagaraj is a businessman, while Santosh Kumar Shetty is employed as a manager at a private cooperative bank. Both are residents of the Brahmavar area and are known locally.
Police said the professional background of the accused does not exempt them from legal action and that anyone found spreading hate or misinformation online will be dealt with strictly as per law.
Focus on maintaining communal harmony
Officials said the detentions are part of ongoing efforts by the police to curb the spread of hate speech, misinformation and provocative content on digital platforms. With the rapid circulation of messages through social media, even a single post can have wider implications for public peace, they said.
The police have been closely monitoring social media platforms to identify content that could incite hatred between communities or create unrest. Action is being taken promptly wherever violations are noticed, officials added.
Appeal for responsible social media use
Police have appealed to the public to exercise restraint and responsibility while using social media. Sharing unverified, provocative or hate-filled content can lead to legal consequences, they warned.
Officials also urged citizens to report objectionable posts to the police instead of forwarding or engaging with such content. “Social media should not be misused to spread hatred or disturb harmony,” a senior officer said.
Further inquiry underway
Police said further investigation is in progress to determine whether additional individuals were involved in creating or circulating the messages. The nature of the content, the platforms used and the reach of the posts are being examined.
Authorities reiterated that strict action would continue against those attempting to misuse digital platforms to spread hate or disrupt public order. The police said such measures are necessary to ensure peace and harmony in society.