In response to the tense atmosphere following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, and India’s retaliatory military action, ‘Operation Sindoor,’ the Madhya Pradesh government has intensified vigilance across the state. As part of these measures, Bhopal’s Collector and District Magistrate, Kaushalendra Vikram Singh, has issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, to maintain peace and curb the spread of rumors via social media in the district. Collector Singh stated that misleading and unverified information, including videos, reels, and posts, is being shared on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Such content risks inciting anger, fear, and tension among the public, potentially disrupting law and order. Consequently, sharing unverified information has been strictly prohibited. The order aims to ensure public tranquility without restricting freedom of expression.

 

Effective immediately, violations of the order will attract legal action under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The administration emphasized that the directive applies to all residents of Bhopal district and is solely intended to maintain peace. Authorities are closely monitoring compliance to prevent any disturbances. The move comes amid heightened national tensions following the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people, and India’s ‘Operation Sindoor,’ a precision strike on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, 2025. States across India, including Madhya Pradesh, are on high alert to maintain law and order, with special surveillance in sensitive areas. Bhopal administration urged citizens to verify information before sharing it on social media and report any objectionable or misleading content to authorities promptly. The public is encouraged to exercise restraint to support efforts in maintaining communal harmony and public safety.