Police slaps FIR against “social media hawker” for spreading misinformation about Lok Adalat

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 15 (STC): Spreading misinformation on social media claiming that major electricity bills and traffic challans would be waived off during the Lok Adalat, has landed a “social media hawker” in trouble as the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Srinagar have registered a case against him.
As per the reports, the individual allegedly indulged in spreading misinformation regarding a Lok Adalat scheduled for December 13, leading to public confusion and an unexpected crowd gathering.
The individual circulated a video on social media platforms claiming that major electricity bills and traffic challans would be waived off during the Lok Adalat. The video quickly gained traction, prompting a large number of people to assemble at the venue in anticipation of relief, reports quoting officials said.
However, the claims were found to be false. District Legal Services Authorities, after taking note of the misleading content and the situation it created, informed the police, following which legal action was initiated.
A case has been registered at Batmaloo Police Station under FIR No. 94/2025 under sections 353 and 292 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The accused has been identified as a social media hawker, reportedly a native of Narbal in Magam area of Budgam district.
Officials said the misinformation forced the authorities to reassess the situation. The Lok Adalat which was scheduled for December 13 had now been deferred to December 18 and 19.
(Straight Talk Communications)