Jammu and Kashmir Police Target Individuals Abroad for Social Media Misuse

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have taken significant action against three individuals based in the US and Germany, accusing them of using social media to promote anti-national sentiments and incite unrest. The police allege that these individuals, posing as journalists, have been spreading misleading content aimed at creating discord. A special court has ordered them to appear by the end of January, but they are reportedly evading arrest while remaining active online. This case highlights ongoing concerns about the influence of social media on public order in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 10:15 IST

Police Action Against Alleged Social Media Manipulators

The intelligence division of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has initiated legal proceedings against three individuals residing in the United States and Germany. They are accused of 'weaponizing' social media platforms to foster anti-national sentiments and promote a secessionist agenda aimed at inciting discontent against India.

According to reports, a special court of the National Investigation Agency in Srinagar has mandated that these individuals appear before it by the end of January. The three accused are identified as Mubeen Ahmad Shah and Azizul Hassan Ashai, also known as Tony Ashai, both from Srinagar, and Rifat Wani from Kupwara.

While Shah and Ashai are currently in the United States, Wani is located in Germany. The charges against them include violations of the Indian Penal Code related to inciting enmity and promoting discord among communities. Additionally, the police have invoked the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act in this case.

The police stated that the case was initiated based on credible intelligence indicating a coordinated effort by anti-national elements operating under the influence of secessionist groups both within and outside the Kashmir region.

These individuals allegedly posed as journalists and freelancers, using platforms like Facebook, X, and WhatsApp to disseminate misleading and inflammatory content. Their actions were reportedly aimed at inciting violence, disrupting public order, and causing unrest.

After an arrest notice was issued, the accused reportedly went into hiding. Despite being labeled as absconders, they continue to be active on social media, allegedly spreading content intended to incite violence in Jammu and Kashmir.