The Belagavi district police have taken serious note of the growing misuse of social media by rowdy-sheeters who are allegedly using minors to project criminal behaviour and intimidate the public through reels and videos. Superintendent of police K Ramarajan has issued a stern warning that such activities will attract strict legal action, including externment, without any leniency.
Addressing the press conference here on Thursday, the SP said certain rowdy-sheeters are operating under names such as 'Bad Boys', 'Tagaru Boys' and 'King Maker' on social media platforms, with the intention of instilling fear in society and exerting influence over impressionable youth. He expressed concern over the trend of placing minor children at the forefront of gang-style videos, reels and photographs, which, he said, conveys a dangerous and misleading message to the public.
"If one wants to live peacefully in Belagavi district, everyone must behave as 'good boys'. Maintaining peace and law and order is the responsibility of all. However, it will not be tolerated if someone uses children to display rowdyism and gain attention on social media," the SP said. He warned that failure to comply with police directives would result in stringent action against the concerned rowdy sheeters, including proceedings for externment from the district. The SP said social media platforms are under continuous surveillance across the district, and the police department is closely monitoring such content.
Appealing to parents, Ramarajan urged them to remain vigilant and ensure that their children are not drawn into such activities, stressing that public peace, law and order, and the future of minors must be prioritised.
The SP revealed that the police have already externed 18 persons in recent weeks for creating fear through social media by glorifying violence, cutting cakes with swords inspired by cinema scenes, and producing videos alongside young children to showcase criminal conduct. He said action was taken against these individuals within a span of one and a half months after confirming their involvement in criminal activities.
Reiterating the department's resolve, the SP said a close watch is being maintained on rowdy sheeters throughout Belagavi district and warned that repeated violations of the law will invite firm and immediate action.
