Nation

IIE Digital Desk: Several social media platforms have been instructed by Delhi Police to delete posts that contain abusive or offensive content directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in light of the ongoing Gen Z-led protests over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. As authorities increase their monitoring of online activity related to the nationwide protests, a move has been made.

Cyber teams have reportedly found several social media posts allegedly containing derogatory comments and incitement towards the Prime Minister, as reported by police officials. The government is investigating the matter. Officials have urged social media firms to remove posts that violate platform policies and may contribute to further unrest during the demonstrations.

The action is a response to significant student protests that have called for the prosecution of the purported NEET-UG paper leak. The "Sansad Chalo " protest in New Delhi, which was one of the largest, led to increased security measures and surveillance of online platforms due to clashes between demonstrators and police.

Authorities have stated that they are closely monitoring social media to identify posts, images, and other materials that may be used or distributed in order to promote unlawful behavior. Though he stressed citizens have the right to peacefully criticise and dissidentize, police said posts with abusive words or "illegal speech" would lead to taking appropriate legal action. The alleged examination leak has since been protested across the country, as students call for greater transparency and reforms in conducting competitive examinations. The disagreement has caused a political upheaval, leading to the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and dominating debates during the current Monsoon Session of Parliament. ".

This new debate on the balance of online freedom of speech and public order has been reignited by the police directive. The removal of inflammatory content is considered necessary to prevent violence and maintain peace, as per authorities. Meanwhile online freedom fighters have demanded that legitimate criticism should be protected against violent individuals.

Despite ongoing investigations into both the alleged paper leak and the protests that followed it, Delhi Police is expected to maintain close monitoring of online platforms. The authorities are encouraging social media users to exercise caution, conduct a background check before disseminating it and avoid posting content that may incite conflict or spread false information.

But the new crackdown also reveals how digital platforms are increasingly playing an increasingly critical role in public life on large scale, and shows authorities have little choice but to work with people's free speech while dealing with security concerns at home.