Man Arrested for Social Media Video Targeting Communal Harmony in Chikkamagaluru

The Chikkamagaluru police on Monday arrested a 23-year-old man for allegedly circulating a video on social media that could disturb communal harmony. The accused, identified as Roshan, was taken into custody after the police registered a case suo motu upon noticing the video on social media platforms.

The video reportedly showed a 40-foot cutout of Tipu Sultan installed in Tippu Nagar for the Id Milad procession scheduled for Wednesday, paired with a song referring to Pakistan. Police said the video was intended to give a communal or political colour to a religious event.

Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Dayama stated that the police identified the person who created and shared the video. He reiterated that strict measures would be taken against anyone attempting to disturb peace. The police have also taken a few others into custody for questioning to determine the full extent of the video's circulation.

Maintaining communal harmony is a constitutional value in India. Laws such as Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code prohibit promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc. The police have a duty to prevent such acts and ensure the safety of all citizens.

In this context, the police have held peace meetings with community leaders and local residents to ensure the Id Milad procession passes off peacefully. They are also monitoring social media platforms to prevent the spread of provocative content that could incite tension.

Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century ruler of Mysore, remains a historical figure viewed differently by various communities. His cutouts are sometimes installed during religious or cultural events in the region. The police have urged the public not to give any communal or political interpretation to such displays.

The accused has been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to promoting enmity between different groups. Further investigation is ongoing.

Local authorities have appealed to residents to maintain peace and report any suspicious online content to the police. They have assured that strict action will follow against those who attempt to disrupt harmony.