The Counter-Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) unit of Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday detained a former journalist for allegedly promoting radical narratives and secessionist content on social media. The objective was to disturb public order and undermine the sovereignty of the country.
The individual is identified as Hilal Mir alias Hilal Saqi, who hails from Bemina in Srinagar and was earlier linked with both local and national media publications. According to a CIK spokesperson, Mir had transformed into a ‘’radical social media user’’ and was actively present on Facebook and X under the handles ‘hilal mir’ and ‘Mir Hilal.’
Accused of promoting misrepresentation facts
The spokesperson mentioned that Mir was using these platforms to ”disseminate extremist/distorted content with an intention to disturb peace and promote disaffection and secessionist ideology and present India in a bad shape’’. His posts reportedly targeted the youth and were designed to agitate sentiments by picturing Kashmiris as victims of systematic violence.
”The social media abuser was also found to be actively involved in posting and sharing content aimed at inciting sentiments among young minds and instigating secessionist sentiment by portraying Kashmiris as victims of systemic extermination,’’ the spokesperson mentioned.
It has also been alleged by the authorities that his online activity was a hidden attempt to evoke resentment among the population, posing a threat to national security.
Foreign link under probe
The CIK officials also seized digital devices, including a laptop and a mobile phone, at the time of detention. The devices have been taken for a preliminary forensic examination. The official stated that, ”A preliminary inspection of the digital devices revealed access to the radical account along with incriminating materials and other extremist/ distorted content/propaganda.’’
Further probe also disclosed suspected communication with foreign-based phone numbers, which are believed to be connected to subversive activities. The spokesperson further added, ”Presumably taking dictation from the adversary for disturbing the peace and tranquillity in the valley, which is a matter of investigation.’’
The suspect is currently under investigation as further legal actions are pending.
(With inputs from PTI)