Kishtwar/Budgam, May 26: In a stern and strongly-worded move, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam has ordered an immediate halt to the circulation of photographs and identity details of the Gulwanpora murder victim across social media platforms, warning of strict legal action against violators.
According to an official order issued by the Office of the District Legal Services Authority Budgam, authorities observed that photographs of the victim, who was brutally murdered, were being widely uploaded and circulated by several individuals on different social media platforms, allegedly in violation of legal provisions protecting the privacy and dignity of victims and their families.
The order states that such acts amount to revealing the identity of the victim and violate provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act as well as privacy safeguards guaranteed under law. It emphasized that public dissemination of such material is punishable and could invite criminal proceedings.
In a major escalation, all social media platforms have been directed to remove the victim’s pictures immediately. The order further warned the general public against sharing, forwarding or reposting any such content.
Taking a hard line on the issue, DLSA Budgam also directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam to lodge FIRs against any individual who continues to upload or circulate the photographs despite the present directions.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the irresponsible sharing of sensitive content on social media, particularly in cases involving victims of serious crimes. Legal experts believe the order sends a strong message that the race for online attention cannot override privacy rights and human dignity.
Authorities have reiterated that violation of the order will invite strict legal consequences, making it clear that social media cannot become a platform for exploitation of tragedy.
