Bokaro Administration Identifies Over 300 Social Media Accounts for Spreading Child-Lifting Rumors
The Bokaro administration announced on Saturday that it has identified more than 300 social media accounts allegedly involved in spreading child-lifting rumors, which have triggered a series of mob attacks on various individuals and groups in the district over the past few days. This crackdown comes as authorities move to curb the spread of misinformation that has led to violent incidents and public panic.
Investigation Reveals Planned Circulation of Misleading Content
DC Ajay Nath Jha stated, "Our investigation has uncovered that misleading messages and videos were being circulated in a planned and systematic manner to create widespread panic and fear among residents. Strict legal action is being initiated against those found involved in these activities. The police have been directed to identify all rumour-mongers and strengthen surveillance measures to prevent further incidents."
Jha emphasized the importance of public vigilance, urging residents not to believe or forward unverified content on social media platforms. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities immediately by using the toll-free emergency number 112, which is available for such reports.
Police Reinforce Call for Public Cooperation
Bokaro SP Harvinder Singh reiterated the need for citizens to rely on official channels rather than taking matters into their own hands. "It is crucial that people inform the police or dial 112 instead of resorting to vigilante actions. This helps ensure safety and prevents unnecessary violence," Singh said, highlighting the risks associated with mob justice.
Recent Incidents Highlight the Dangers of Rumors
In a recent case on Friday, Manisha Devi, a 27-year-old door-to-door sales executive, was mistaken for a child-lifter by locals in the Bishanpur area under the Balidih police station. Residents apprehended her, but some community members intervened, moving her to a room inside the panchayat building and locking it from the outside to protect her from the growing crowd while police were notified.
Hours later, another incident occurred at Banshidih under the Chas police station, where five sadhus traveling in a four-wheeler were assaulted by locals on suspicion of being child-lifters. The suspicion arose after they were seen speaking to children, and an alleged irregularity was noted in the vehicle's number plate, further fueling the rumors.
Over the past four days, approximately six similar cases have been reported from the district, underscoring the rapid spread and dangerous consequences of these unfounded rumors. Authorities are now focusing on both digital and on-ground measures to restore order and prevent future occurrences.
