In the aftermath of Udhampur attack, various kinds of rumours are circulating on social media about fresh terror threats and other issues, causing concern to the authorities which has warned of strict action against those spreading false information and creating panic.
Rumours circulating on Whatsapp are about 200 militants sneaking in, sighting of terrorist, capturing of terrorists in some areas, reports of encounter, feared attacks, emergency, closure of schools and so on, according to Udhampur District Magistrate Shahid Iqbal Choudhary.
He said this tendency has been viewed very seriously and more than a dozen Whatsapp groups have been put under scanner by district administration to identify the persons who are involved in this rumor mongering and creating panic among people.
“Directions have been issued for strict monitoring of content on social media and booking rumor mongers,” the DC said.
“Updating such fake news having serious security repercussions is also a threat for law and order management. Persons sharing such information shall be held responsible for consequences therein and legal action shall be initiated,” he said.
Media personnel have also been advised to verify the information from the District Magistrate, SP or PCR before updating on social media, he said.
A general advisory has also been issued for the public advising not to indulge in unlawful activities but spreading such false information, he added.
Udhampur witnessed a major attack earlier this week in which two Pakistani terrorists targeted a BSF bus, killing two personnel and injuring over 10, before one of them was killed and another nabbed.
PTI
