Sopore, Apr 16 (KNO): Police have widened their crackdown in Sopore following recent protests, arresting several persons for their alleged involvement in vandalism and for sharing misleading content on social media.
The J&K Police, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said action has been taken in related cases linked to the unrest that erupted after allegations of harassment against a lecturer surfaced earlier this week.
In the first case, police said multiple arrests have been made in connection with incidents of vandalism during the protests, which saw damage to school property and vehicles. So far, 13 persons have been arrested, while 13 more have been identified for their alleged role in the violence.
Officials said some of the accused were apprehended during night raids as part of an ongoing operation to trace those involved. Police have maintained that strict action will be taken against anyone found disturbing public order.
In a parallel development, police arrested three persons for allegedly sharing misleading and unverified content on social media. The arrests were made in connection with FIR No. 93/2026 registered at Police Station Sopore.
“Three persons have been arrested for sharing misleading content online. Further action is underway,” an official said, adding that the case was registered after authorities found attempts to spread rumours and incite unrest through social media platforms.
Pertinently, Inspector General of Police- Kashmir, V K Birdi had earlier said that certain elements tried to take the law into their own hands during the protests. He said those involved had no connection with the school and would face legal consequences.
The protests had broken out earlier this week after a student accused a lecturer of harassment. The situation escalated at some places before police brought it under control.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir has suspended the lecturer and ordered an inquiry into the matter. The Joint Director North has been appointed as inquiry officer and has been asked to submit a report within 15 days—(KNO)