Andhra: Palnadu Police warn of legal action for provocative social media posts after exit polls

Palnadu (Andhra Pradesh) [India], May 31 : Police in Palnadu district of Andhra Pradesh have issued a warning, stating that legal action will be taken against individuals for posting provocative content on social media or WhatsApp following the upcoming exit polls, according to an official statement released on Friday.
Palnadu District Superintendent of Police, Malika Garg, said, "No provocative posts should be made on social media or WhatsApp following the upcoming exit polls. If anyone sends such messages, photos, or videos, the group administrators will be held fully responsible, and legal action will be taken against them."
In the Narasaraopet town police station area of Palnadu District, a person who allegedly posted a video on social media using "obscene language" and "inciting hatred" between political parties has been remanded, police said.
"If any hateful messages, photos, or videos are posted on social media, strict action will be taken according to the law. The responsibility for such crimes falls entirely on group administrators," SP Garg said.
Following this incident, the police registered a case and, upon investigation, found that the individual was referencing the current political situation in the district. Subsequently, the individual was taken into custody and sent to jail.
Similarly, in the Sattenapalli town police station area, a rowdy-sheeter allegedly "attacked a watchman" of a political party office and "threatened to burn down" the office, police said. A case was registered against him, and considering his past criminal activities, he was remanded and sent to jail.
The SP warned that individuals with a history of criminal behaviour who disrupt public peace would face strict legal consequences, including being charged under the PD Act or being banned from the district.
"Due to the implementation of Section 144 across the district, no rallies, loudspeakers, or cultural programs are permitted on June 1, 2024, during Hanuman Jayanti. The public is advised to perform their prayers at the temple only and cooperate accordingly," the police stated.
"All commercial and business activities (shops) across the district should be closed from 5 PM on June 1, 2024. Traders are asked to cooperate with the police," the police said. The public should avoid gathering in groups and only go out if absolutely necessary. They should purchase any essential items by the evening and stay indoors to support the police in maintaining peace and order.