Bihar Police Warns Against Sharing Provocative Caste-Based Content on Social Media During Elections

Police in Bihar have issued a stern warning against sharing songs with provocative caste overtones on social media platforms as the state prepares for elections. Director General of Police Vinay Kumar emphasized that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt peace or violate the model code of conduct.

The DGP clearly stated that no misuse of social media platforms will be tolerated during this sensitive electoral period. This warning comes in response to an emerging trend where supporters of various political parties have been posting songs and short videos spreading caste-based messages.

"Police will take strict action against those who post objectionable and double-meaning songs with provocative caste overtones, including those of Bhojpuri, on social media platforms. Such acts are considered attempts to disrupt peace and violations of the model code of conduct in the poll-bound Bihar," DGP Kumar told PTI.

He highlighted that the Election Commission of India's guidelines on this matter are very explicit, and multiple agencies are working to ensure strict enforcement of these rules across the state.

The 243-member Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results to be declared on November 14. As polling dates approach, social media has become increasingly significant in political campaigns.

Another police officer revealed that supporters of several political parties are posting provocative and objectionable Bhojpuri songs with double meanings as part of their campaign strategies. In response, the cyber cell of the Economic Offences Unit of Bihar Police has already registered 10 FIRs on this matter.

"Besides, 53 station diary entries, under relevant sections of the IT Act, have also been made for further action. So far, more than 16 objectionable contents have been taken down and dozens of proposals are in process," the officer informed PTI.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission has issued an advisory on responsible use and disclosure of synthetically generated information and AI-generated content during elections. The Commission expressed concerns about technology being used to create, modify and transmit synthetic information that can "masquerade as the truth and unwittingly trap political stakeholders into incorrect conclusions."

In a letter sent to all national and state recognized political parties on Friday, the Commission emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability to preserve electoral integrity and voter trust.

The ECI had previously issued guidelines last year on responsible and ethical use of social media platforms, along with an advisory in January this year addressing concerns over labeling of synthetic and AI-generated content used in election campaigning.

Given the increasing threat posed by fake and synthetically generated content that could potentially manipulate electoral processes, the Commission has reminded all political parties of their responsibility to comply with IT Rules, 2021 and all related guidelines and advisories.