Administration Cracks Down on Viral Rumors in Mewat; Tightens Grip on Fake News Propagators

Police Issue Major Warning Amid Viral Claims in Mewat Various types of misleading and unverified information regarding the alleged “intruder shooting incident” linked to Haryana’s Mewat region are rapidly going viral on social media. Following the circulation of these claims, the police administration has appealed to the public to remain vigilant and has explicitly stated that strict legal action will be taken against those spreading rumors without verification.

Over the past few days, numerous posts and videos have been shared across platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp, making various claims regarding the incident. Many of these claims have not yet received official confirmation. The police state that certain individuals are sharing misleading content on social media with the aim of sensationalizing the situation and garnering more views and followers—actions that could create confusion and tension within society.

According to police officials, the Cyber Cell and intelligence units have been instructed to monitor social media platforms. Accounts that are sharing inflammatory, communal, or false information without any evidence are being identified.

Officials stated that information regarding any incident should be considered accurate only if it is based on official statements issued by the police, the district administration, or other authorized government agencies. Not all information circulating on social media is factual; frequently, old videos or photographs are misleadingly presented by linking them to recent events. Experts believe that in the digital age, rumors spread far more rapidly than before. A single erroneous post can reach thousands of people within just a few minutes. If the matter is

sensitive, this can create an atmosphere of social tension, fear, and insecurity. The Mewat region has previously been a subject of national discourse for various reasons. In such a context, the dissemination of any unverified information could pose a challenge to local peace and law and order. The police have clarified that maintaining law and order is their priority and that the spreading of any kind of rumor will not be permitted.

Verify the authenticity of any news before sharing it. Rely only on credible and official sources. Do not forward inflammatory or communal messages. Report suspicious videos, photos, or posts to the authorities. Conduct yourself responsibly on social media. Do not accept any viral message as the absolute truth.

Under Indian law, action may be initiated under relevant sections in cases involving the dissemination of false information to disturb public peace, incite communal tension, or mislead the public. The police have issued a warning that if any individual is found to be deliberately spreading false information, an FIR may be registered against them, and necessary legal steps will be taken.

According to cybercrime experts, records of activities conducted on digital platforms are securely preserved. Therefore, individuals who spread rumors using fake accounts or false identities can be identified through technical means. The district administration and the police have appealed to citizens to maintain peace and restraint. Officials state that for information regarding any incident, one should await official press releases and administrative updates. People should refrain from believing in or circulating rumors.

The administration also stated that while social media is a vital medium of information today, using it responsibly is the duty of every citizen. Misinformation can not only impact law and order but also foster mistrust and tension within society.