Lucknow Police Take Action Against Communally Sensitive Social Media Posts Following Devastating Slum Fire
In a significant development, the Vikas Nagar police station in Lucknow has taken decisive legal action by registering two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) against unidentified individuals. This action comes in response to the alleged circulation of misleading and communally sensitive content on social media platforms in the aftermath of a recent, catastrophic slum fire that destroyed hundreds of shanties.
First FIR Targets Instagram Account 'mdali10k' for Inflammatory Content
The first FIR has been formally lodged against the handler of an Instagram account identified as "mdali10k," along with other unknown persons. In his detailed complaint, Sub-Inspector Atul Kumar has alleged that this specific account uploaded a false and highly misleading video directly related to the tragic fire incident.
According to police reports, the contentious post contained a dangerous mix of inflammatory remarks, abusive language, and explicit references that were deliberately aimed at provoking communal sentiments and inciting public unrest. Authorities stated that the video included unsubstantiated claims questioning the cause of multiple LPG cylinder explosions during the fire. Furthermore, it employed objectionable language targeting specific political leaders and individuals from particular regions, escalating tensions unnecessarily.
Second FIR Filed Against 'news_artery' for Spreading False Casualty Figures
In a parallel move, a second FIR has been registered against another Instagram account, "news_artery," and other unidentified persons. Sub-Inspector Bhanu Pratap Singh, in his complaint, alleged that this account shared a video making the sensational and unverified claim that over 100 people had perished in the devastating blaze.
The post went further by allegedly suggesting that police forces would resort to a lathi-charge against the victims of the tragedy. It also accused authorities of actively suppressing the true scale of casualties, thereby spreading misinformation and potentially eroding public trust in official disaster response efforts.
Police Intensify Efforts to Identify Account Holders
Station House Officer (SHO) of Vikas Nagar, Alok Kumar Singh, has confirmed that intensive efforts are currently underway to identify the holders of these social media accounts. The police are utilizing digital forensic techniques and collaborating with social media platforms to trace the origins of the inflammatory content. This proactive stance underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the dissemination of content that threatens communal harmony and public order, especially in the sensitive aftermath of a major disaster.
Key Points of the Police Action:
- Two separate FIRs registered at Vikas Nagar police station on Friday.
- FIRs target unidentified individuals for posting communally sensitive and misleading content.
- Content circulated on Instagram accounts "mdali10k" and "news_artery" following a major slum fire.
- Allegations include spreading false information, using abusive language, and inciting communal unrest.
- Police are actively working to identify and apprehend the account handlers.
This legal action highlights the growing concern over the misuse of social media to spread misinformation and communal hatred during times of crisis, prompting a firm response from Uttar Pradesh law enforcement agencies to maintain public peace and order.
