Cyber Police in Nagpur File Case Over Defamatory Instagram Reels Targeting Union Minister Nitin Gadkari
A formal case has been registered at the Cyber Police Station in Nagpur against unidentified individuals for allegedly posting defamatory reels on Instagram targeting Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. The complaint was lodged by Shishir Arun Tripathi, a resident of Gandhibagh and president of the BJP IT cell, who reported encountering the offensive content on February 16.
Details of the Complaint and Alleged Content
According to the complaint, Tripathi discovered a reel on an Instagram page operated by "@Agastya Jadhav" that had garnered thousands of views. He further noted that two additional reels on the same topic had been uploaded by unknown persons. The reels reportedly spread misleading information related to the 2009 Yogita Thakre death case, falsely labeling it as a murder and alleging coercion, despite the CID having cleared the matter and the court closing the case.
The content also included objectionable remarks directed at Gadkari and his family, aiming to tarnish their reputation. Tripathi emphasized that this dissemination occurred despite official resolutions, suggesting a deliberate attempt to malign the minister.
Legal Actions and Charges Invoked
In response to the complaint, the police have invoked charges under the Information Technology Act for online misconduct, along with defamation charges for making false allegations. This case highlights the growing use of social media platforms for spreading defamatory content and the legal measures being taken to address such issues. Authorities are actively investigating to identify the perpetrators behind the posts.
The incident underscores concerns about digital misinformation and its impact on public figures, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of cyber laws to protect individuals from online harassment and false accusations.
