Mamata asks Shah to bring ‘strict laws’ to curb provocative content on social media, rising cybercrime | Kolkata News | #cybercrime | #infosec

Stating that proliferation of provocative content on social media platforms and “alarming rise” in cybercrime pose “serious challenges to public tranquillity, and the social fabric of our nation,” the chief minister wrote: “…it has been observed that incendiary narratives, misleading stories and fake videos circulating on social media are contributing significantly to the aggravation of criminal tendencies among certain sections of society. Such content not only spreads misinformation but also has the potential to inflame communal sentiments, incite violence, disrupt societal harmony, and indulge in crimes against women. The instantaneous and wide-reaching nature of misuse of digital platforms amplifies these effects manifold.”

“…There is, therefore, an urgent need for stringent legislative provisions that can act as an effective deterrent against the creation and dissemination of provocative content and acts perpetrated with criminal intent in cyberspace,” the letter read.

Highlighting the rise in cybercrime, the chief minister wrote Shah: “The menace of cybercrime is growing, both in complexity and its detrimental impact. From financial frauds and identity theft to online harassment and defamation, cybercrimes are exacting a severe toll on individuals and institutions alike.”

“Notably, both provocative social media posts and cybercrimes disproportionately affect the vulnerable sections of society— women, children, the elderly, and those from economically weaker backgrounds — are often less equipped to identify, counter, or recover from such harm,” the chief minister added Banerjee also called for “fostering widespread awareness” to promote responsible digital behaviour and responsible use and consumption of digital media.

The chief minister’s letter comes in the wake of a string of communal incidents in the state. In April, Murshidabad witnessed large-scale violence that began over a protest march against the Centre’s new Waqf law. At least three persons were killed, and several public and private properties were damaged in the violence.

In June, communal clashes broke out at Maheshtala, bordering Kolkata in Diamond Harbour, leaving about a dozen police personnel injured.

The state has been witnessing communal violence in districts like Howrah and Hooghly for the past year on Ram Navami.

In most of these incidents, Chief Minister Banerjee has held the spread of lies and misinformation on social media responsible for fuelling violence.