After several videos related to violence and vandalism in Kolkata circulated on social media, Kolkata Police on Tuesday urged people to stay cautious against
misinformation, even as incidents of arson and vandalism were reported from different parts of West Bengal after the election results. "Several misleading posts are being circulated on social media by falsely linking unrelated videos and photos from other places to Kolkata after the election results. Kolkata Police is closely monitoring such content. Strict legal action is being taken against those spreading misinformation and attempting to disturb public peace. The situation in Kolkata is fully under control. Citizens are requested not to believe or share unverified posts," said Kolkata Police in an X post. In a post shared by a user on X, claiming that "Indian Army was entering Kolkata" is fake and Kolkata police has fact checked the post. Also warned to take strict actions against those who are spreading misinformation. Despite the police statement, TMC alleged that multiple incidents of violence were reported during the day across West Bengal. Offices of the Trinamool Congress were targeted in several areas as celebrations took place following BJP’s landslide victory in the state.
According to police, TMC offices in Tollygunge and Kasba in Kolkata were vandalised. Similar incidents were also reported from Baruipur, Kamarhati, and Baranagar in the suburbs, as well as from Howrah and Baharampur in the districts.
However, BJP leader Rahul Sinha denied that his party workers were involved in the attacks. He said the incidents could be due to internal conflicts within the TMC, with party members expressing anger after the poll results.
Police said they are monitoring the situation closely and taking action where required.
(With Inputs from PTI)
