In advance of elections, Odisha Police will combat social media usage

Prior to this year’s Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, political parties will be able to immediately file complaints via email to Odisha Police’s specialized unit and cells, given the concerning increase in the spread of deepfake photos, videos, and disinformation on social media.

“Any political party may forward such concerns to the Crime Branch’s social media branch via email. A political party may email social media cells in the districts in addition to the social media unit receiving complaints at the state level, according to a senior official of the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack.

According to insiders, the social media cells with specialized staff should be up and running shortly. The social media unit’s and its cells’ email addresses will be provided to all political parties in the state so they may file complaints.

Senior officials promised to respond to these accusations right away and to take strict measures. In the run-up to the general elections, this would assist them in reducing the spread of false information on social media. Guidelines for political parties doing social media marketing have been released by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Action will be taken against any organization or person seen disseminating fake, inflammatory, or fraudulent information on social media. Our social media specialists have already begun “cyber patrolling,” a senior police official said.

Sources said that postings would be deleted if the police discover any offensive material. However, the state police will report a social media user’s account to the relevant authorities if they continue to publish improper information. According to insiders, police would closely monitor all social media sites, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp, YouTube, and others. Additionally, police have guaranteed that no person or group will face needless harassment for expressing their views on social media.