Note ban: Rumours spread on social media, police warn of strict action

New Delhi: Social media was abuzz with rumours following the demonetisation of high currency notes, even as Delhi Police officials urged people not to spread or come under their influence and said action would be taken against the accounts spreading rumours.

In Chandni Chowk, owing to large crowds outside ATMs, a rumour spread that there was a stampede in which four people were injured. However, senior police officers from the district calmed the situation.

"There is no stampede outside any #Bank or #ATM in #ChandniChowk. Please don't spread or come under the influence of any #Rumour ! We will also be taking cognisance of all social media accounts which are spreading #Rumours !! It's an offence under section 505 of IPC. (sic)," said DCP(North) Madhur Verma in a series of tweets.

"Don't believe in #rumours! Situation is peaceful and people are cooperating. #CashRush #Bealert. Appeal to all to maintain peace and law and order when waiting in line at Bank! #Bealert #Besafe #CashRush #Alliswell," tweeted Esha Pandey, additional DCP-I (North).

Meanwhile, on the second consecutive day people queued outside ATMs to exchange their high denomination currency.

Security has been beefed up outside banks and ATMs and along with the district police, paramilitary personnel have also been deployed. At some places, RAF jawans are also deployed to keep the situation under control.

"The crowd is more since it's a weekend and many people have an off today. The crowd is swelling by the hour," said a senior police officer.