Karnataka Cracks Down on Social Media Misuse: 2,018 Cases Registered in 3 Years
Strict Monitoring to Curb Fake and Provocative Content
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has intensified its efforts to monitor social media platforms to curb the spread of fake news and provocative content. Over the past three years, 2,018 cases have been registered across the state against individuals accused of posting misleading or inflammatory videos.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara revealed these figures while responding to a question raised by BJP MLA K.S. Naveen in the Legislative Assembly regarding the actions taken by the police department against social media misuse.
Heightened Surveillance on Social Media
Acknowledging the increasing misuse of social media, the minister stated that platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram are under close surveillance. “In Bengaluru alone, 798 cases have been registered in the past three years,” he added.
To strengthen monitoring, specialized Social Media Monitoring Wings have been established in every police station across the state. These units operate 24/7, with dedicated personnel keeping a close watch on online activities.
Dedicated Desks to Combat Misinformation
To tackle cybercrime more effectively, the government has introduced special desks in police stations focusing on:
✅ Online media monitoring
✅ Law and order
✅ Individual and organizational threats
The minister further emphasized that immediate action is taken against those spreading fake news, inciting communal tensions, or posting provocative content. “As soon as such content is identified, senior police officers are informed, and cases are registered without delay,” he asserted.
Rise in Cybercrime Despite Drop in Traditional Crimes
While cases of murder, robbery, and assault have declined across the state, cybercrimes have increased significantly. In 2023 alone, over 22,000 cyber fraud cases were reported. Given this rise, the government is focusing more on cyber police stations to handle digital crimes effectively.
No State-Level Law, But Support for Central Regulation
Responding to MLA Naveen’s suggestion for a separate law at the state level, the Home Minister clarified that a state-specific law would not be introduced. However, he noted that a comprehensive central law on misinformation and cybercrime would be highly beneficial.
As Karnataka strengthens its digital surveillance, the government urges citizens to use social media responsibly and refrain from spreading misleading content that could disrupt public harmony
Key Quotes
✅ Home Minister G. Parameshwara: “Social media is a powerful tool, but its misuse is increasing. We have taken strong measures to monitor and act against fake and provocative content to maintain public order.”
✅ BJP MLA K.S. Naveen: “The rise in cybercrimes is alarming. While monitoring is important, the government should consider a stronger legal framework to tackle misinformation more effectively.”
✅ Senior Police Official: “With dedicated social media monitoring wings in every police station, we are ensuring round-the-clock surveillance. Swift action will be taken against those spreading false narratives online.”
Q & A Section
Q: How many cases have been registered in the past three years for fake or provocative content on social media?
👉 A: A total of 2,018 cases have been registered across Karnataka, including 798 in Bengaluru alone.
Q: How is the police monitoring social media activities?
👉 A: Every police station now has a Social Media Monitoring Wing that operates 24/7 to track and report harmful content.
Q: Is Karnataka introducing a new law to deal with fake news?
👉 A: No, the state will not introduce a separate law, but the government supports a central law for stronger regulation of misinformation.
Q: What other measures are in place to tackle cybercrimes?
👉 A: Special police desks for online media monitoring, law and order, and cyber fraud prevention have been set up across Karnataka.
