PANAJI
Inquiries into 348 complaints regarding objectionable social media content, registered in just five months of this year, indicate rampant misuse of the online platform, with one FIR filed so far.
Out of 349 complaints received by the Cyber Crime Cell, one has been registered, while the rest are pending inquiry for ‘for appropriate action including FIR registration.’
The issue of social media misuse has sparked public debate prompting the government to intervene for immediate action to maintain law and order.
Of three arrests and FIRs against a few others recorded in the last couple of days, Shreya Dhargalkar and Namita Fatarpekar were arrested by Cuncolim police for allegedly making offensive comments against members of the temple management committee of Shree Shantadurga Kunkalikarin Temple at Fatorda.
After her release on bail, Dhargalkar was arrested by Bicholim police for making derogatory comments against the devotees of Devi Lairai. She remains in judicial custody.
In another offence registered at Mapusa police station, Aryan Salgaonkar was arrested on Monday, and Edmund Fernandes is absconding for hurting religious sentiments by allegedly posting offensive comments on Devi Lairai.
Surge in financial frauds
Goa has also witnessed a surge in financial fraud cases with 76 complaints received, 16 registered, 19 forwarded to concerned police stations for investigation, and 41 under inquiry. Overall, the State has recorded 425 complaints related solely to social media and financial fraud.
Amid this ongoing controversy, Director General of Police Jaspal Singh has urged users to avoid derogatory posts and refrain from special disharmony.
“Social media is a digital invention of the civilised world to spread information, knowledge, and interactions. Pls don’t make it ‘unsocial’ by posting derogatory posts about individuals, groups, sects, creeds, and religions. Learn to respect each other. No disharmony, please,” DGP Singh tweeted.
