West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Tuesday, suggested that the BJP IT cell, which is engaged in spreading fake news and creating communal tension through social media, should be made to do sit-ups once they are caught.
“Those who are spreading fake news about Bengal through their IT cell and trying to create communal tension should be made to hold their ears and do sit-ups,” Banerjee said, without naming the saffron party, at a function to honour policemen who have been among the front-line warriors during the COVID-19 crisis.
Spreading of communal tension through fake is an organised crime according to IPC and can attract penal act.
An officer said, “Measures such as the one she suggested are add-ons along with slapping of cases.”
The chief minister also announced the setting up of a cyber forensic digital laboratory in Kolkata to help police expedite the attempts to curb fake news. “Increased emphasis will be given on cyber security division,” said she.
She said a one-time financial aid has been given to the families of cops who succumbed to COVID-19, and added that a committee has been formed to look after the welfare of the police force in the state.
Meanwhile, many have questioned the chief minister's decision to felicitate only the police department.
“There are other people as well who work as front-line workers. This has been done keeping and eye on the upcoming assembly elections,” said a senior BJP leader.
The BJP claimed that surveillance on party leaders would be increased in the state through the cyber security cells of the state government.
While police officers were eager to hear from the chief minister about the upcoming Durga Puja and whether puja would be allowed to be held in a big way this year, Banerejee said the decision on this has not been taken. “Durga Puja is far away and a decision on this will be taken later on,” she said.
