Order under Section 163 BNSS directs digital news portals, social media administrators and content creators to exercise caution; police tasked with identifying violations and preserving digital evidence.
By Asif Iqbal Naik
KISHTWAR, November 4: District Magistrate Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS) has issued a two-month preventive order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, aimed at curbing the circulation of fake news, misleading information and provocative content on social media platforms.
The order, issued on November 3, will apply to individuals, online news portals, social media pages, digital channels and content creators operating within or reporting from Kishtwar district.
The administration has directed users not to knowingly create, publish, forward or circulate fabricated information, manipulated videos or inflammatory content that could create public alarm, incite violence, promote hostility or disturb public tranquillity.
Particular attention has been drawn to reaction videos, counter-statements, edited audiovisual material and personalised allegations that could escalate disputes and create tensions.
The order also directs digital news platforms and social media administrators to exercise due diligence and comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Police to Monitor Violations
Senior Superintendent of Police Kishtwar has been directed to identify prima facie violations, preserve electronic evidence and initiate appropriate preventive or legal proceedings in accordance with law. Authorities have also been asked to examine the original source and circumstances of disputed content before taking coercive action.
District Information Officer Kishtwar has been appointed as the nodal officer and tasked with preparing a verified inventory of digital news portals, social media news pages and other media entities operating in the district.
Freedom of Press Protected
Clarifying its position, the District Magistrate stated that the order is not intended to obstruct legitimate journalism, investigative reporting, constructive criticism or lawful dissent.
The order specifically clarifies that mere disagreement, criticism, satire or unpopular opinions will not, by themselves, constitute a violation.
Violations attracting penal consequences may invite action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable laws.
The preventive order will remain in force for two months from its issuance.
