Spreading misinformation about security operations in Jammu and Kashmir has led to strict legal action against a local resident. Authorities in Bandipora district have taken into custody a man identified as Momin ul Islam for allegedly publishing fake news on Facebook regarding a terrorist attack on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Kulgam. Following the swift police operation, the misleading posts were formally erased from the social media platform.
Spreading Rumors and Disrupting Peace
Investigation revealed that Momin ul Islam, a resident of the Gund Dachina locality in the northern Kashmir district of Bandipora, operated a Facebook page named 'Bandipora Wala'. Through this platform, he circulated an inaccurate update claiming that three CRPF personnel were killed during the 11 November attack in Kulgam. In reality, the targeted personnel were injured rather than killed, making the circulating post entirely unfounded and deceptive.
Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, the local police swiftly tracked down the administrator, lodged a formal FIR, and took him into custody. Authorities emphasized that disseminating false narratives during delicate security conditions could trigger unwarranted panic, destabilize public trust, and compromise regional peace and order.
Details of the Kulgam Attack and Related Incidents
The origin of the incident dates back to 11 November, when two heavily armed terrorists ambushed a CRPF security outpost located in Kulgam district. The sudden gunfire resulted in injuries to three CRPF personnel, who were subsequently provided medical care. However, incorrect versions of the assault began circulating rapidly across digital channels.
Adding to the tension across the region, authorities discovered the bullet-riddled bodies of two Special Police Officers (SPOs) the following day in the remote Dachhan forest area of Kishtwar district. Given the tense security ecosystem, law enforcement moved quickly to curb digital rumors before they could escalate public anxiety further.
