Punjab police warns against spreading fake news over coronavirus

Punjab police issued an advisory and warned rumour-mongers of strict action against spreading fake news on social media over novel coronavirus. The police also warned that those found guilty of indulging in such acts will be penalized and dealt with under the relevant provisions of the law.

Chandigarh: Punjab police on Saturday warned rumour-mongers of strict action against spreading fake news on social media over novel coronavirus.

As per sources, Punjab DGP Dinkar Gupta gave a stern warning to rumour-mongers and said that those found guilty of indulging in such acts will be penalized and dealt with under the relevant provisions of the law.

In an advisory issued here, Punjab DGP Dinkar Gupta warned people against spreading baseless rumours and falsehood, with a series of dos and don'ts against using mobile phones and social media platforms to spread mischievous and unsubstantiated information, which can create unnecessary panic and hardship to all around.

These are tools that help keep everyone connected and informed, he said, warning people against just sending forwards, or posting/spreading fake news.

Gupta also requested the general public not to create panic and unrest through malicious forwards and social media posts, adding that those found guilty of indulging in such acts will be penalized and dealt with under the relevant provisions of the law.

Pointing out that COVID-19 pandemic is affecting each one of us, Gupta said, "It has impacted our daily lives and affected our livelihoods."

The virus can be devastating for our families, our friends and our communities, he warned, adding that the safety and welfare of each one of our family members, our work colleagues and everyone around is of paramount importance, with the authorities doing their best to battle the problem.