Ranchi Police Asks X for User Data Linked to JPSC-JSSC Reform Manch

Ranchi: The cybercrime unit of Ranchi Police has issued a legal notice to 'X' seeking user details and account activity logs of the handle @JPSCreformanch, which allegedly posted videos and photographs containing "false and fabricated" information about the Jharkhand government's actions, an official said on Monday.

The notice was issued on August 22, a day after three FIRs were registered at Ranchi's Kotwali police station against 14 named and 200 unidentified people for allegedly obstructing government work and clashing with police.

"The notice was issued to 'X' in connection with a criminal investigation into the dissemination of false and misleading information. It has come to our notice that the X account @JPSCreformanch (JPSC-JSSC Reform Manch) is being used to continuously post videos and photographs that contain false and fabricated news regarding the actions of the government of Jharkhand," Ranchi cyber DSP Pankaj Kumar said.

Ranchi police asked the legal team of 'X' to provide the account holder's full name, residential address, contact numbers, and registered email, he said.

The cyber police also sought account activity logs, including login and logout records with precise dates and times and IP addresses, for the period covering August 10 and the preceding days, the officer said.

According to the notice, the account is accused under sections 353 (statements conducing to public mischief), 196 (false information to a public servant), 356 (defamation) and Section 67 of the IT Act (publishing offensive material).

On Sunday, police issued an advisory asking organisers to obtain prior permission for dharnas, demonstrations, processions, rallies and public meetings held in public places and follow due procedure.

Police also appealed to students and the public not to pay heed to rumours.