Dipen Parmar accused of spreading false information, endangering national security
Surat, May 12 — A 40-year-old businessman from Surat, Gujarat, has been arrested for allegedly posting an objectionable and misleading video on social media related to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.According to police officials, Dipen Parmar was taken into custody on Sunday by personnel from the Amroli police station. Parmar reportedly uploaded a video on Facebook via a page titled ‘Jago India’, in which he claimed the Pahalgam terror attack was "premeditated" and that the "leaders of terrorists live in India."
Authorities stated that the video aimed to spread a baseless narrative, potentially inciting public unrest and misleading citizens. In a statement, the Amroli police confirmed that Parmar had been charged under Section 197(1)(D) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to the publication of false or misleading information that threatens India's sovereignty, unity, integrity, or security.
The video was deemed to violate national interests, and an FIR was promptly registered before the arrest.
Background: Pahalgam Terror Attack and Operation Sindoor
The terror attack on April 22 occurred in Baisaran, a popular tourist destination in Pahalgam. It resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 people and left several others injured. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting and demolishing nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.Police have reiterated their commitment to monitoring online content that could jeopardize national harmony and security, warning of strict legal action against those circulating misinformation.