Kishtwar district administration restricts digital media and social content for two months
Authorities in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, have issued a two-month order to curb the spread of alleged fake news and provocative content, impacting journalists and digital content creators.
The District Magistrate of Kishtwar has implemented a directive to restrict the circulation of “provocative statements” and false information, citing a need to maintain public order. Effective November 3 and lasting for two months, the order invokes Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which allows for urgent measures in cases of apprehended danger.
The directive specifically prohibits the use of “reaction videos,” counter-statements, and edited material intended to intimidate or incite groups in a manner that threatens public tranquility. While the administration claims the order does not target legitimate investigative reporting, satire, or dissent, it explicitly states that individuals cannot claim immunity from legal consequences simply by labeling themselves as journalists, influencers, or content creators.
To enforce the policy, the District Information Officer has been tasked with creating an inventory of digital news outlets operating in the district, detailing their owners and administrators. Law enforcement has been directed to monitor for violations, collect electronic evidence, and initiate penal proceedings where necessary.
This move aligns with a broader history of tight digital surveillance in Jammu and Kashmir, where authorities have previously imposed shutdowns and restricted VPN usage. Industry observers note that such mandates frequently raise concerns regarding the impact on free speech and the operational autonomy of independent digital media entities.