Prayagraj Man Booked for Allegedly Threatening Former Mayor in Social Media Post
A case has been registered in Prayagraj against a social media user identified as Shailesh Srivastava for allegedly issuing threats and posting objectionable remarks targeting Abhilasha Gupta, the former mayor of the city and wife of a state cabinet minister. The incident has prompted a swift and coordinated response from law enforcement agencies, highlighting the growing concerns over online harassment and cybercrime in the region.
Police Launch Multi-Agency Investigation to Track Accused
A joint team comprising officers from the Kotwali police station, the Special Operations Group (SOG), and the Cyber Cell has been mobilized to investigate the matter and locate the accused individual. According to official reports, the team is actively working to track Shailesh Srivastava's whereabouts using advanced technological tools and investigative techniques. The urgency of the operation underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating threats against public figures.
The First Information Report (FIR) was filed at the Kotwali police station based on a formal complaint lodged by the media adviser of the former mayor. This legal action sets the stage for a thorough probe into the alleged cyber offenses, which have raised alarms about the safety and security of individuals in the digital age.
Legal Charges and Official Statements on the Case
Shailesh Srivastava has been booked under Section 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66 of the Information Technology (IT) Act. These charges pertain to criminal intimidation and violations related to computer resources, respectively, reflecting the dual nature of the offense involving both traditional threats and modern cyber violations.
A senior police officer involved in the investigation provided details on the case, stating, "A social media user named Shailesh Srivastava allegedly posted objectionable remarks on a Facebook post by the former mayor, and cops are tracking his location." The officer further emphasized that the joint team is diligently investigating all aspects of the case, and appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings. This statement reassures the public of the police's commitment to addressing such incidents promptly and effectively.
Broader Implications for Online Safety and Law Enforcement
This incident in Prayagraj serves as a stark reminder of the increasing prevalence of online threats and the need for robust cybercrime prevention measures. The involvement of multiple police units, including specialized cyber cells, demonstrates a proactive approach to combating digital offenses that target individuals, especially those in public life.
As the investigation progresses, it is expected to shed light on the motivations behind the alleged threats and the methods used by the accused. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, potentially influencing policies and practices related to online security and the protection of citizens from harassment on social media platforms.
