Is Social Media Facing Increased Scrutiny Following Cuttack's Curfew?
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Synopsis
In response to recent unrest in Cuttack, Odisha Police has issued a critical advisory against sharing unverified information on social media. This follows a curfew imposed after violence erupted during a bike rally. The police urge citizens to verify news authenticity and remain vigilant against fake content. How will this impact community safety?
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Police advises against sharing unverified information.
- A 36-hour curfew has been imposed in Cuttack to maintain peace.
- Eight arrests have been made in connection with the violence.
- Strict measures against misinformation will be enforced.
- Internet services have been temporarily suspended in the city.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Odisha Police has issued a directive urging the public to avoid posting or sharing unverified, false, and provocative messages on their social media accounts.
The official post on the state police's X handle encouraged citizens not to trust any fake videos circulating on social media.
“It is essential to verify the authenticity of any news before sharing it on social media. Please avoid spreading false or provocative content. Strict legal measures will be taken against those who disseminate misleading information. Some individuals are fabricating and propagating fake news to disrupt societal peace. Citizens should remain vigilant and not believe in any fake videos or social media posts under any circumstance,” emphasized the Odisha Police.
Additionally, Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh announced that so far, eight individuals have been arrested following three cases linked to the violence that erupted during a bike rally organized by a Hindu group in Cuttack on Sunday evening.
Singh also indicated that further arrests are anticipated as the search for suspects continues.
In a statement to IANS, Singh mentioned: “Rocks were thrown at police in Cuttack after they attempted to stop a procession that was held without proper authorization. The police had to use force to disperse the crowd. Consequently, a 36-hour curfew was enforced in Cuttack. The situation has remained stable so far under the curfew. A significant presence of the Central Armed Police Force and Commissionerate Police is being maintained in both mobile and stationary forms across various city areas to assure public safety.”
Singh further revealed that 60 platoons of police, six companies of the Central Armed Police Force, and Rapid Action Force have been deployed in sensitive areas throughout the city to restore normalcy.
Referring to DGP Y.B. Khurania’s warning to potential troublemakers, the Police Commissioner reiterated that anyone attempting to incite unrest during the curfew will face serious consequences.
Following the recent unrest in Cuttack, triggered by a bike rally organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on the evening of October 5 concerning an attack on a Durga Puja immersion procession, authorities imposed a curfew in various sensitive parts of the city for the next 36 hours.
On the evening of Sunday, the Odisha Home Department also suspended internet services in the city for 24 hours.
Point of View
I believe that the recent advisory by Odisha Police reflects a growing concern about misinformation's impact on public safety. It is crucial for citizens to engage responsibly on social media, particularly during sensitive times. The police's proactive measures in enforcing the curfew and addressing provocations demonstrate a commitment to maintaining peace and order.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the curfew in Cuttack?
The curfew was implemented following violence during a bike rally organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad in response to an attack on a Durga Puja immersion procession.
How long is the curfew expected to last?
The curfew in Cuttack is set for 36 hours from its imposition.
What should citizens avoid doing on social media?
Citizens are advised to refrain from posting or sharing unverified, false, or provocative messages on their social media accounts.
What actions will be taken against those spreading misinformation?
The Odisha Police has stated that strict legal action will be taken against individuals disseminating false or misleading information.
Is internet access restricted in Cuttack?
Yes, the Odisha Home Department has suspended internet services in Cuttack for 24 hours as a precautionary measure.
