Bihar's Darbhanga District Imposes Social Media Suspension Amid Religious Flag Clash

The decision aims to curb the spread of objectionable content and maintain public order in the region, but locals have expressed concerns about the impact on essential internet-based services.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 27 July 2023 4:36 pm

Internet suspended in Rajasthan. (File photo: Tribhuvan Tiwari/Outlook)

In response to escalating tensions after a clash over the hoisting of a religious flag, social media websites have been suspended in Bihar's Darbhanga district until July 30, as per a notification issued on Thursday. The decision comes after some anti-social elements were found using the internet to share objectionable content, spreading rumors and disaffection among the public, leading to disturbances of peace and tranquility, and causing damage to life and property.

The state Home Department issued the order directing all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block any messages or pictorial content related to the incident transmitted through social networking sites or applications in Darbhanga district from 4 pm on July 27, 2023, until 4 pm on July 30, 2023, as reported by PTI.

While the suspension was intended to address the situation and maintain public order, locals complained that other websites were also inaccessible, affecting internet-based essential services in the district.

The clash occurred near Bazar Samiti Chowk in Darbhanga town when some individuals objected to the hoisting of a religious flag near the place of worship of another community. Subsequently, tensions escalated, leading to stone-pelting between members of the two communities. The police and local administration intervened to control the situation, and several people were arrested in connection with the incident.

Addressing the situation, JS Gangwar, the Additional Director General (ADG) of Police (Headquarters), assured that the situation is under control in Darbhanga. Adequate forces have been deployed to monitor the area and prevent any untoward incidents. In light of Muharram, security has been strengthened across the state with the deployment of 24 companies of Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP), 4,500 home guards, 7,790 trainee constables, and six companies of paramilitary forces.

Additionally, authorities have intensified cyber-patrolling and social media surveillance to identify and trace individuals posting provocative, objectionable, and blasphemous content.