State Investigation Agency (SIA) in Kashmir conducted several searches across four districts in the region as part of an ongoing investigation into the misuse of social media. The searches were carried out in Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama and Kapwara districts and were aimed at uncovering individuals and groups involved in propagating secessionist, anti-India sentiments through various social media platforms.
The SIA stated that the entities involved in the case have been suspected of colluding with foreign associates to spread hatred against India and promote terror activities. Additionally, these entities have been targeting government servants, hindering their ability to perform their lawful duties.
The SIA conducted the pre-dawn searches to search for digital and physical evidence to support their case against the accused individuals and organizations. The evidence collected by the SIA was substantial and included mobile phones, SIM cards, and other data storage devices. The evidence will be meticulously analyzed to build a strong case against the accused individuals and organizations, ensuring a comprehensive investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.
The misuse of social media has been a growing concern in Kashmir as it has been used to spread propaganda and initiate violence. The SIA has been working hard to curtail this trend and had earlier registered a case, FIR No 05/2023, against India-based social media entities collaborating with their foreign associates to spread hatred against India.
The searches conducted by SIA KASHMIR resulted in the seizure of substantial digital and physical evidence. The SIA said in their statement that they are committed to finding out the real culprits who are spreading negativity and hate speech through social media platforms.
Overall, the crackdown in Kashmir highlights the importance of curbing the misuse of social media, which has been a significant factor in instigating violence and supporting treacherous acts. The searches conducted by the SIA are an essential step towards ensuring a more peaceful and stable region.