File Photo: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today flagged concern over the reported use of the mobile-messaging service WhatsApp in triggering hate crimes and incidents of violence in the state.
"Information cannot be kept hidden. This is the age of WhatsApp and mail... (but) this is the state where WhatsApp, which should be used for good purposes, is used for igniting tempers and many communal parties come into the open against each other on its basis," he said at a programme of irrigation department organised at his official residence.
"Having queried for the age of the people posting such matter on WhatsApp or mails, I came to know that they are youths between 16-24 years of age and people over the age of 60 came out to burn shops and buildings (against such posts)," he said adding that it would have to be kept in mind that such services should be used for good purpose.
Reportedly, incidents of communal tension were triggered in various places in UP like Agra, Kannauj, Bahraich and Jalaun with some mischievous elements circulating objectionable material on WhatsApp.
The Chief Minister has recently asked the police to take stern action against the culprits circulating hate messages.
Mr Yadav had asked the police to issue state-wide WhatsApp number and make an appeal to the people to inform about any such attempt anywhere in the state to put a check on the same.
He also asked the Director General of Police (DGP) to publicise the WhatsApp number of the police and create awareness among the people.