The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) stepped up its crackdown on anti-national propaganda networks, with a special court in Srinagar issuing proclamations against multiple accused for allegedly running
a coordinated secessionist misinformation campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to a press release issued by CIK, the Special Judge designated under the NIA Act in Srinagar issued a proclamation under Section 82 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in connection with FIR No. 07/2020, registered at Police Station Counter Intelligence Kashmir.
The case relates to offences under Sections 153-A and 505 of the IPC, which deal with promoting enmity and statements conducing to public mischief, along with Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Investigators said that the case was registered following credible intelligence inputs pointing to a “well-orchestrated conspiracy” by anti-national and secessionist elements operating both within and outside the Kashmir Valley.
Social Media Used As Tool For Misinformation
CIK officials said investigation revealed that the accused were masquerading as journalists, freelancers and news portals, while allegedly weaponising social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and WhatsApp to circulate fake, exaggerated and out-of-context content.
“The deliberate objective of this digital misinformation campaign was to incite street violence, disrupt normal life, damage public property and fuel mass unrest, thereby creating disaffection against the Union of India,” the release stated.
The investigation established the alleged involvement of three accused: Mubeen Ahmad Shah, resident of Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar; Azizul Hassan Ashai alias Tony Ashai, resident of Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar and Rifat Wani, resident of Trehgam, Kupwara.
Authorities said the accused were actively propagating content “prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India” with the intent of instigating unrest.
Following the issuance of arrest warrants, the accused allegedly went underground to evade legal proceedings. Taking note of their absence, the special NIA court has now directed them to appear before it on or before January 31, 2026. Failure to do so could lead to further action under Section 83 CrPC, including attachment of property.
Despite being declared absconders, officials said the accused continue to remain active on social media, allegedly persisting with the circulation of provocative and fabricated content.
Reiterating its stance, Counter Intelligence Kashmir said it remains committed to acting decisively against all forms of anti-national propaganda and digital subversion.
“Such unlawful activities will be dealt with strictly under the law,” the agency warned.
