Will the Govt Take Stern Action Against Fake News on Social Media?

Mumbai, May 9 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde issued a warning on Friday that the government is prepared to enact strict measures against individuals disseminating fake news on social media, particularly during the rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

After participating in a security review meeting led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Shinde remarked: “Disseminating fake news on social media constitutes a serious offense. We will enforce stringent actions against offenders. We urge the public to refrain from filming, recording, or broadcasting any military or Coast Guard preparations, as this is crucial from a security standpoint.”

Shinde further stated that discussions with the Navy, Air Force, Army, and Indian Coast Guard will occur within the next few days.

He emphasized that the government will provide necessary assistance to security forces.

“During the meeting, the Chief Minister assessed the current situation and instructed measures to enhance security. Mock drills have been conducted in certain areas and will continue in others soon. Alerts will be communicated to the public via sirens or mobile applications. The meeting also highlighted the need for coordination between coastal residents and police to bolster security in those regions,” Shinde explained.

He also remarked that comprehensive discussions were held to ensure the safety of both Mumbai and the entire state of Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis ordered administrators to perform mock drills in every district and set up a war room at the district level, which would include coordination with hospitals during a blackout.

Even if the power is cut to avoid targeting, electricity supply should be maintained through alternative means to ensure patient comfort. He also instructed the use of dark-colored curtains or glass to prevent light visibility from outside.

To stress the importance of blackouts in the current scenario, CM Fadnavis directed the administration to disseminate instructional videos to students and citizens regarding what to do and what not to do.

This initiative aims to promote widespread awareness. Additionally, he urged the administration to deeply examine the Central government’s 'Union War Book' and inform the public accordingly.

Police cyber units in every district should monitor social media platforms and identify accounts aiding Pakistan, taking necessary actions against them. He asserted that anyone assisting the enemy or spreading misinformation must face consequences.

CM Fadnavis announced that every District Collector will receive an emergency fund today for immediate procurement of necessary materials. Furthermore, he instructed that any important proposals related to this matter should receive approval within one hour. He also urged district collectors to convene meetings with all municipalities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region to raise awareness about blackouts in collaboration with cooperative housing societies.

Moreover, CM Fadnavis explicitly stated that the police force should remain exceptionally vigilant.

“Given the likelihood of increased activity from anti-national elements, it is crucial to conduct more combing operations and intensify patrols,” he emphasized.

He also cautioned against the filming of military-related activities and their dissemination on social media.

To further reinforce maritime security, he instructed the hiring of fishing trawlers as necessary. The CM articulated that the government should implement a system to provide citizens with timely and accurate information regarding the situation.

“Considering the potential for cyberattacks on critical government infrastructure such as power generation and distribution, an immediate cyber audit should be conducted by the cyber department,” the CM directed. He requested the administration to invite the leaders of all three military branches and the Coast Guard in Mumbai to the next meeting to enhance collaboration between the government and security forces.