Maha Kumbh: 13 FIRs Registered Against 140 Social Media Handles for Spreading Misleading Content

Introduction

The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, has always been a focal point for millions of devotees and a subject of intense media coverage. However, with the rise of social media, misinformation and misleading content have become significant concerns for law enforcement authorities. In a recent crackdown, the Uttar Pradesh Police registered 13 First Information Reports (FIRs) against 140 social media handles accused of spreading false and misleading information about the Maha Kumbh 2025 event, which is set to take place in Prayagraj.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police for Maha Kumbh,  confirmed the development, stating that authorities are actively monitoring digital platforms to curb the spread of misinformation. The police have taken a strong stance against those attempting to disrupt the event’s sanctity by circulating misleading content, rumors, or fake news related to the arrangements, safety measures, or government policies regarding the Kumbh Mela.

Maha Kumbh 2025: The Grand Religious Event

The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, is an important Hindu pilgrimage where millions of devotees gather to take a sacred dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. The 2025 event is expected to attract an unprecedented number of pilgrims, saints, and tourists from across India and the world. Given the scale of the gathering, the government and law enforcement agencies have been making extensive preparations to ensure smooth logistics, safety, and security.

With such a massive congregation, misinformation on social media has the potential to create panic, mislead devotees, or even incite communal tensions. Authorities are, therefore, taking strict action against social media accounts that spread misleading information regarding COVID-19 protocols, safety concerns, logistical arrangements, or false religious claims.

Nature of Misleading Content Circulated on Social Media

According to reports, the 140 social media handles targeted by law enforcement authorities have been accused of sharing misleading, inflammatory, or false content related to Maha Kumbh. Some of the common themes of misinformation include:

1. False Claims About Facilities

   • Certain posts falsely alleged that the basic facilities at the Maha Kumbh, such as drinking water, sanitation, or medical aid, were inadequate or mismanaged. This type of misinformation could deter pilgrims from attending or create unnecessary panic.

2. Rumors About Safety and Security

   • Some social media users spread rumors about security threats, including false claims about potential stampedes, terrorist attacks, or police mismanagement. Such misinformation could cause unnecessary fear among attendees and disrupt the peaceful conduct of the event.

3. Communal and Religious Misinformation

   • Some of the flagged posts attempted to create communal disharmony by spreading fake news about religious disputes related to the Kumbh Mela. Law enforcement agencies have emphasized that such content is being closely monitored to prevent communal tensions.

4. Fake COVID-19 or Epidemic-Related Alerts

   • Despite the pandemic being under control, some social media handles falsely claimed that there were new outbreaks of contagious diseases at the Kumbh Mela or that the government was planning to impose travel restrictions. Such misinformation could affect public sentiment and participation.

5. Political Misinformation and Anti-Government Propaganda

   • Certain groups allegedly spread false information targeting the government and its handling of the Kumbh Mela preparations, attempting to portray mismanagement where there was none.

Police and Government Action Against Misinformation

Surveillance and Monitoring of Social Media

The Cyber Crime Cell of Uttar Pradesh Police, in coordination with the Intelligence Bureau and other law enforcement agencies, has been actively monitoring social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp to track misleading content.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police for Maha Kumbh stated,

“We have a dedicated team working around the clock to identify and take action against individuals or groups spreading false information. Misleading content about the Maha Kumbh could disrupt the event and cause unnecessary panic among devotees. Strict action will be taken against those responsible.”

Legal Action and FIRs Filed

The 13 FIRs registered so far invoke provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology (IT) Act, and other relevant laws. The main legal provisions under which cases have been filed include:

• Section 153A IPC – Promoting enmity between different groups.
• Section 295A IPC – Deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
• Section 505 IPC – Statements creating or promoting enmity, hatred, or ill-will.
• Section 66 of the IT Act – Punishment for identity theft and misuse of electronic media.

Authorities have also sought assistance from social media companies to take down misleading posts, suspend fake accounts, and trace the origins of viral misinformation.

Government’s Awareness Campaign

In addition to cracking down on misinformation, the government has launched an awareness campaign to ensure that accurate and verified information reaches the public. The campaign includes:

• Regular official updates on Maha Kumbh arrangements via government websites and social media pages.
• Engagement with religious leaders to counter rumors and promote verified information.
• Collaborations with media outlets to fact-check and debunk viral misinformation.

Impact of Misinformation on Maha Kumbh Preparations

Potential Threat to Public Safety

Misinformation can cause mass panic, leading to stampedes, overcrowding, or unnecessary fear among pilgrims. False security alerts can lead to chaos and disruptions in law enforcement efforts.

Impact on Religious Sentiments

Since Maha Kumbh is a deeply spiritual event, false claims can create misunderstandings and tensions among devotees, leading to disputes or disruptions in the event’s religious harmony.

Challenges for Law Enforcement and Administration

Authorities already face the enormous challenge of managing millions of devotees, ensuring sanitation, health services, and security. Fake news and rumors add extra pressure on resources and divert attention from actual issues.

Public Confusion and Reduced Attendance

Misinformation about safety, security, or government arrangements might discourage people from attending the Kumbh Mela, affecting its overall success.

Public’s Role in Preventing Misinformation

Authorities have urged people to be vigilant and responsible when sharing content about Maha Kumbh on social media. Citizens have been advised to:

1. Verify Information – Cross-check any news or updates with official sources before sharing.
2. Report Misinformation – Flag false or misleading posts to authorities or social media platforms.
3. Follow Official Sources – Rely on government websites, official police statements, and verified media for information about the event.
4. Avoid Spreading Rumors – Be cautious about forwarding unverified messages on WhatsApp and other platforms.

Conclusion

The registration of 13 FIRs against 140 social media handles underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement agencies are tackling misinformation related to Maha Kumbh 2025. The authorities are committed to ensuring that misleading content does not disrupt the event’s smooth conduct or create unnecessary panic among millions of devotees.

As the Maha Kumbh approaches, it is crucial for citizens to play their part in combating fake news, verifying information, and supporting efforts to maintain the event’s sanctity and safety. The government’s proactive measures, combined with public cooperation, will ensure that Maha Kumbh remains a spiritually enriching and peaceful gathering for all devotees.                                                                                                                                                                   ALSO READ:- U.S. SEC Seeks Assistance from Indian Law Ministry to Serve Complaint to Gautam Adani and Nephew Sagar in Adani Bribery Case 2025