Why was YouTuber Mari Das arrested in Chennai?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on social media misinformation, Tamil Nadu Police have arrested YouTuber Mari Das for allegedly making inflammatory remarks about the state government following a deadly stampede at a political rally. This incident raises questions about the balance between free speech and public safety in the digital age.
Key Takeaways
- Mari Das was arrested for allegedly making inflammatory remarks.
- Tamil Nadu Police are intensifying their crackdown on misinformation.
- The Karur stampede resulted in 41 casualties, raising safety concerns.
- A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident.
- Authorities urge citizens to refrain from sharing unverified information.
Chennai, Oct 4 (NationPress) In a recent initiative to combat provocative online content, the Tamil Nadu Police arrested popular YouTuber Mari Das at his home in Chennai's Neelankarai. This arrest stemmed from allegations that he posted inflammatory remarks concerning the state government in relation to the tragic Karur stampede that resulted in 41 fatalities during actor-turned-politician Vijay's campaign rally.
According to police sources, cybercrime teams have been vigilant since the stampede on September 27, actively monitoring social media to prevent the dissemination of misinformation and content that might disrupt public order.
Mari Das, originally from Madurai and recognized for his sharp political commentary, reportedly criticized the government's crowd control and safety measures at the rally in a video shared late Friday.
On Saturday morning, a special cybercrime team conducted a raid at his residence in Madurai's Gomathipuram, but he was not there. Acting on intelligence, officers located him in Neelankarai, Chennai, and took him into custody.
The authorities seized his phones, laptops, and other electronic devices to analyze the nature of the content he shared.
A senior police official stated, "We are taking action against individuals spreading rumors and false narratives about the Karur incident that could incite unrest. While freedom of expression is valued, deliberate attempts to incite fear and distrust among the populace will be met with strict legal repercussions."
The case against Mari Das has been filed under laws concerning promoting enmity and disrupting public tranquility.
Authorities are also probing whether his content was part of organized efforts to sway public opinion following the Karur tragedy.
This incident marks the second significant social media crackdown in recent days.
On September 30, the Greater Chennai Police's Cyber Crime Wing arrested YouTuber Felix Gerald, who operates the RedPix channel, for allegedly spreading misinformation and attributing motives to the Karur stampede.
Officials noted that cases have been opened against at least 25 other social media users for posting unverified claims and videos that blame the state and the police.
The Karur stampede, which occurred during a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) campaign event led by Vijay, has ignited intense political discourse regarding safety protocols and crowd management at large political gatherings.
The state government has mandated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe to determine accountability.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid sharing unverified information, warning that actions aimed at disturbing peace will lead to prosecution.
The investigation into Mari Das's online activities is ongoing.
Point of View
We recognize the critical need for accurate information dissemination, especially in the wake of tragic events. While we uphold the importance of freedom of speech, we also emphasize the responsibility that comes with it. The authorities' efforts to maintain public order through legal measures should not undermine genuine dialogue and discourse in our society.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the reasons behind Mari Das's arrest?
Mari Das was arrested for allegedly posting inflammatory remarks about the Tamil Nadu government following the Karur stampede that resulted in 41 fatalities.
What actions are authorities taking against misinformation?
The Tamil Nadu Police have intensified their crackdown on social media, arresting individuals spreading false narratives and unverified claims that could incite unrest.
How has the public reacted to these arrests?
Public reactions have been mixed, with some supporting the crackdown on misinformation while others express concern over freedom of expression.
What is the status of the investigation into the Karur stampede?
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been ordered by the state government to probe the incident and determine accountability.
What legal provisions are being used against Mari Das?
The case against Mari Das has been registered under laws related to promoting enmity and disrupting public tranquility.
