The Bihar government on Sunday suspended the transmission of messages through social networking sites in Kaimur district following a clash between members of two communities during Muharram processions. The suspension, which was ordered by the state home department, will be in effect until August 1.
The decision to block social media messages stems from concerns that some people are using the internet to share objectionable content, spread rumours, and incite public unrest, potentially causing harm to life and property and disrupting peace and tranquillity in the region.
"Now, therefore, in the interest of maintaining public order, the department hereby directs all internet service providers that any messages to or from any person or class of persons relating to any subject or pictorial content through social networking sites or applications shall not be transmitted in Kaimur district from 1.30 pm on July 30, 2023 until 4 pm on August 1, 2023," according to the notification accessed by news agency PTI.
On the occasion of Muharram on Saturday, a "Taziya" procession at Ekta Chowk in Bhabhua, the headquarters of Kaimur district, erupted. The incident prompted the district magistrate and superintendent of police to take command of the situation.
The district police are examining footage from CCTV cameras and drone cameras installed in the area during Muharram to identify those involved in the clash, according to a report by PTI, the situation is now under control. On Saturday, District Magistrate Sawan Kumar assured the public that the authorities had quickly brought the situation under control with the help of an adequate police force, it added.
Immediately following the incident, DM Sawan Kumar reported on Saturday that some anti-social elements attempted to cause disruption, but the "situation was soon brought under control" with the assistance of an adequate police force, it said.
Three rapid response teams were activated to assist the police in maintaining order, SP Lalit Mohan Sharma told PTI.