Delhi Police identify 37 accounts over misleading EC protest posts
Indiadailyupdate.com – Delhi Police identify 37 accounts that allegedly shared misleading content, rumours and fabricated videos during protests against the Election Commission (EC) in the national capital. Multiple FIRs have been registered as investigators examine whether online posts and videos were intended to misrepresent events, incite people or affect public order.
Officials familiar with the matter said that more than 37 social media accounts have come under scrutiny. More than 17 of these accounts were said to be linked to right-wing groups. Police have also issued takedown notices to over 17 handles and started action under relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act and other applicable laws.
Police examine posts, reels and alleged fabricated videos
The investigation concerns content shared during the demonstrations, including posts and reels that allegedly targeted protesters or presented the protests in a misleading way. Police are also examining accounts accused of circulating material that claimed protesters faced police brutality.
Investigators are working to establish whether the videos, images and other posts are authentic. The inquiry includes identifying the people operating the accounts and determining how widely the disputed material was circulated. Delhi Police identify 37 accounts as part of this monitoring and verification exercise, officials said.
One FIR was registered at the New Delhi cyber police station in connection with an account accused of uploading fabricated videos. Police wrote to social media platform X seeking details that could help identify the user behind the account. According to the communication reviewed by officials, police said the content was being circulated with the potential to disrupt public order.
Police are monitoring online activity linked to the protests while assessing whether individual posts, videos or images were misleading or fabricated.
AI-generated images also investigated
In a separate case, a man was arrested for allegedly creating AI-generated images involving Assistant Commissioner of Police Vivek Bhagat and a woman journalist. Officials said the images were created to falsely suggest that the journalist was being harassed. Investigators later found that the images had been artificially generated.
The development followed a complaint filed earlier this month by the journalist at Parliament Street police station, in which she accused Bhagat of sexual harassment. Police subsequently registered an FIR against the woman based on a complaint by Bhagat. He alleged that she and her colleagues subjected him to public humiliation and casteist slurs while he was performing his duties during the protest.
These cases remain separate elements of the wider investigation into online material related to the EC protests. Delhi Police identify 37 accounts amid concerns that manipulated visuals, unverified claims and selectively edited footage can spread quickly during major public demonstrations.
Why online misinformation during protests is under scrutiny
Social media can provide immediate updates from protest sites, but it can also amplify claims before they are independently verified. A video may lack context, an old clip may be presented as new, or an altered image may appear convincing when shared repeatedly. Police action in this case focuses on content alleged to be false or designed to create confusion, rather than on ordinary reporting or lawful expression of opinion.
For users in Delhi, the practical takeaway is to be cautious before reposting dramatic claims about protests, policing or public safety. Check whether a post identifies its location and time, compare it with reliable reporting, and look for confirmation from official authorities when the information involves an alleged emergency or violence. Screenshots and short video clips can be especially difficult to verify without their original source.
FAQ: Delhi EC protest social media investigation
What did Delhi Police say about the accounts?
Officials said police had identified more than 37 accounts allegedly involved in sharing misleading content connected with the EC protests. Some accounts were alleged to have spread fabricated videos or posts that could affect law and order.
Were social media platforms asked to remove content?
Yes. Police said takedown notices were issued to more than 17 social media handles. In one cyber police case, X was asked to provide account details linked to an allegedly fabricated video.
How can Delhi residents assess protest-related posts?
Residents should avoid forwarding unverified videos or images, particularly material alleging violence or misconduct. Looking for the original upload, checking the claimed date and location, and comparing information with reliable reports can help prevent the spread of misleading content.
