Srinagar, Dec 15, : Police in Srinagar have registered a case against a social media hawker for allegedly spreading misinformation regarding a Lok Adalat scheduled for December 13, leading to public confusion and an unexpected crowd gathering.
Officials said the individual circulated a video on social media platforms claiming that major electricity bills and traffic challans would be waived off during the Lok Adalat. The video quickly gained traction, prompting a large number of people to assemble at the venue in anticipation of relief.
However, the claims were found to be false. District Legal Services Authorities, after taking note of the misleading content and the situation it created, informed the police, following which legal action was initiated.
A case has been registered at Batmaloo Police Station under FIR No. 94/2025 under sections 353 and 292 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The accused has been identified as a social media hawker, reportedly a native of Narbal in Magam area of Budgam district.
Officials said the misinformation not only misled the public but also disrupted the planned proceedings, forcing authorities to reassess the situation. In view of the confusion and crowd management concerns, the Lok Adalat scheduled for December 13 had now been deferred to December 18 and 19.
Police said further investigation is underway and warned against the spread of unverified or misleading information on social media, particularly on matters involving public institutions and legal processes. [KNT]
