Fake news has been prevalent in society for ages but never heard that such news will mobilise citizens to kill someone who is innocent. It is surprising to know as society develops, more people become gullible to fake news.
What is more shocking is, believing in fake news to the point of taking life of another person. No one has right to take away the life of another person even if he is found guilty. But it happens in India. As reported, it happened in the garden city where Kaluram was stoned to death just because there was a message circulating through Whatsapp saying that Kalu was a child kidnapper. In another incident two persons were killed at Panjuri in Karbi Anglong District of Assam, just because someone circulated the fake news saying that the victims were child lifters.
As reported, during the last few months the fake news spread through social media has taken the lives of about eight people in India. It is a serious concern. The law enforcing agencies must detect the source of such fake news and take stern action on person who is responsible in spreading such fake news. If it is not nipped at the bud, more innocent lives will be lost in the days to come.
RUI PEREIRA, Navelim
