Andhra Pradesh Cracks Down on Social Media; 100 Cases Filed, 39 Arrested
The Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has initiated a sweeping crackdown on social media content deemed offensive or potentially divisive.
The state has registered 100 police cases, arrested 39 individuals, and issued 67 notices over posts allegedly targeting political leaders and their families. The government claims that some of these posts could incite conflict among groups.
Social Media Content Targets Politicians’ Families
Many of the flagged posts focus on Chief Minister Naidu’s wife, Bhuvaneshwari; his son, Minister Lokesh’s wife, Brahmini; and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s daughters. Additionally, content targeting state Congress chief YS Sharmila has been cited. Naidu has reportedly advised his party members to respond with dignity to such posts.
Opposition YSRCP Criticizes Government Actions
Opposition leader Jagan Mohan Reddy of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has criticized the government’s actions, stating that his party members have been disproportionately targeted. According to Reddy, over 650 notices have been served, 147 cases filed, and 49 YSRCP activists arrested. Reddy accused the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) of using these actions to suppress dissent, claiming, “Our party leaders, activists, and social media advocates, including myself, will continue to post against the TDP.”
Police Summon Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma
In a high-profile development, Andhra Pradesh Police summoned film director Ram Gopal Varma for allegedly posting morphed images of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister on social media. Varma has been asked to appear before investigators next week and has reportedly agreed to cooperate.
The police action follows a complaint filed by Ramalingam, who alleged that Varma’s posts disrespected the Chief Minister, his deputy, and their families. The Naidu government’s crackdown on social media reflects the intensifying scrutiny and tensions between the ruling TDP and opposition voices in the state.
