'Defamatory and offensive' social media posts against Bihar govt now cybercrime

Posting 'defamatory and offensive comments' against the Bihar government can now lead to jail as the state administration has decided to bring such remarks on social media under the category of cybercrime.

In a letter to all secretaries of the Bihar government, the Chief of the Economic Offences Wing, IG Nayyar Hasnain Khan, said, "It has come to light that certain persons and organisations have been making defamatory and offensive comments on social media against the government, respected ministers, parliamentarians, legislators, and government officials. This is against prescribed law and comes under the category of cybercrime."

He requested all officials to bring such acts under the notice of Economic Offences Wing, so that correct action can be taken against them.

Reacting to the letter by IG Khan, Opposition leader in Bihar, Tejashwi Yadav called the CM "Bheeshm Pitamah" of the corrupt and the "protector of criminals". Stating that the chief minister is following the path of Hitler, the RJD leader dared the state government to arrest him for his post.

Bihar police however justified their step, clarifying that 'constructive criticism' is welcomed and actions will only be taken against those using 'insulting language' to spread rumours.

Source: theindianexpress.com, scroll.in

Written by Siddhant Sharma