State government has issued stern warning to all responsible that anyone indulging in spreading of rumours through any means, which could cause unrest in the society, would be dealt severely with the appropriate section of law.
In a press release, Nagaland Home commissioner, Abhishek Singh, said the state administration has geared up for conduct of free and fair state Assembly polls on February 27. However, it was observed that certain vested interests and antisocial elements were indulging in spreading of rumours that could result in causing unrest and tension amongst various communities.
Singh reminded that spreading of rumours through WhatsApp or social media was also a criminal act. Such offences, Singh said were classified as public mischief and were punishable as per Section 505 of Indian Penal Code.
Citing relevant clauses of Section 505 such as Section 505 (1) (b) (c) and 505 (2), Singh said the mentioned clauses would also be applicable if anyone uses WhatsApp or social media for spreading rumours.
The state government has requested all responsible to refrain from forwarding any messages, photographs or videos that have not been verified independently.
Informing that police and law enforcement agencies were making all possible efforts to ensure safe, secure, free and fair elections, the state government has sought cooperation to ensure that these elections were the cleanest of all election.