Udupi Police Arrest Bengaluru Man for Allegedly Posting Objectionable Facebook Comment
In a significant crackdown on online misconduct, the Udupi police have arrested a 45-year-old man from Bengaluru for allegedly posting an objectionable comment on Facebook. The arrest was made under the supervision of Kundapur Subdivision DSP HD Kulkarni, marking a firm response to digital harassment.
Details of the Case and Arrest
The accused, identified as Prakash S, was taken into custody and subsequently produced before the jurisdictional court. According to police reports, the incident traces back to March 4 of last year, when authorities were monitoring the Facebook page of a vernacular daily.
A post featuring an interview with Mahammad, a vegetable vendor operating at Mangaluru's Central Market, had attracted an abusive comment from a Facebook user using the pseudonym "Hemmeya Karyakarta." This comment, deemed highly objectionable, prompted immediate police action.
Legal Framework and Charges
In response to this digital transgression, the Kundapur police registered a suo motu case, invoking stringent legal provisions. The charges include:
- Section 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to statements conducing to public mischief.
- Section 66(C) of the Information Technology Act, addressing identity theft and cheating by personation using computer resources.
This dual legal approach underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating online offenses that threaten public order and individual dignity.
Broader Implications and Police Statement
The arrest highlights the growing vigilance of law enforcement agencies in monitoring social media platforms for content that could incite discord or harm. DSP HD Kulkarni emphasized that such actions are part of a broader strategy to maintain cyber hygiene and protect citizens from online abuse.
"We are committed to ensuring that digital spaces remain safe and respectful," stated a police official involved in the case. "This arrest sends a clear message that objectionable online behavior will not be tolerated."
The case continues to be under investigation, with authorities examining the broader context of the comment and its potential impact on community harmony. Residents are urged to exercise caution and responsibility in their online interactions to avoid similar legal repercussions.
