District Magistrate Lehimplements section 144 to curb spread of fake news on social media

Leh, Mar 01: In response to growing concerns over the dissemination of fake news and instigating messages on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp, the District Magistrate of Leh has issued a stringent order under Section 144 of the CR.PC.
The order, issued by Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, District Magistrate of Leh, aims to prevent any potential breach of peace and public tranquility in the district. It prohibits individuals from posting or sharing any content on social media that has the potential to disturb communal harmony, peace, or tranquility, which could lead to a law-and-order situation.
According to an order Whereas, it has been made to appear to me by inputs from District Police Leh and alsootherwise that fake news and instigating messages are being shared on social media platforms, especially WhatsApp groups, which may lead to breach of peace and order in the district and may result in law-and-order situation.
Whereas, it is desirable that any such possible breach of peace and public tranquility should immediately be prevented Now, therefore, I, Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, District Magistrate, Leh, in exercise of powers vested in me under section 144 of CrPC, 1973, hereby prohibit the individuals in Leh District from posting/sharing any such post/message that has the potential to disturb the communalharmony/peace/tranquility which may lead to law-and-order situation in the district. Further, it shall be the responsibility of Admins of WhatsApp Groups/Social Media Platforms to monitor and filter such content immediately.
As notice cannot be served individually, this order is being passed ex-parte. Any violation of this order shall invite punitive action under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.
This move underscores the district administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability amidst the proliferation of misinformation on social media platforms. Citizens are urged to cooperate with the authorities to combat the spread of fake news and uphold communal harmony in Leh District.