The Uttar Pradesh government has issued a stern warning regarding cyber offences, stating that crimes such as circulating obscene and offensive content on social media can result in a fine of up to Rs 1 crore and imprisonment of up to seven years. This declaration was made in the state Assembly on Tuesday, December 25, 2024, highlighting the administration's focus on tightening cyber security laws.
Government's Stance on Cyber Punishment
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna provided these details while responding to a query during the Question Hour. The question was raised by Samajwadi Party legislator HN Singh Patel, who flagged concerns about "abusive content" on social media and alleged biased action in some instances. Patel cited an example from his constituency, Sagdhi in Azamgarh, seeking clarity on the government's response mechanism.
Khanna asserted that the state has established a robust system to handle such cases. He explained that complaints are reported by District Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) to the cyber wing, which includes the DIG (Cyber). This system enables the swift removal of objectionable content, even when servers are located outside India.
Call for Exemplary Punishment
Intervening in the discussion, Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana emphasized the critical importance of this issue, especially for individuals in public and political life who are frequently targeted by misinformation and abusive online comments. Mahana urged the government to develop a strong policy framework to ensure exemplary punishment in proven cases.
"Until strict punishment is meted out to a few people, the message will not go out," Mahana stated. He acknowledged the right to freedom of expression but stressed that the spread of false information, obscene language, and objectionable content on social media is unfortunate and must be effectively curbed.
Strengthened Cyber Policing Across UP
Minister Khanna detailed the significant strides made in enhancing cyber policing infrastructure across Uttar Pradesh. He noted that previously, only two police stations—in Lucknow and Noida—handled cybercrime cases. Now, cyber facilities are available in every district and police station in the state.
The government has undertaken extensive training programs, with 84,705 police personnel trained so far to handle cyber offences. Furthermore, more than 65,000 awareness camps have been organized at the police station level to educate the public. In matters related to national security, the Special Secretary (Home) has been authorized to take cognizance and initiate appropriate action, ensuring a layered and responsive approach to cyber threats.
Khanna concluded by affirming that all actions are taken strictly in accordance with the nature of the complaint received, underscoring the government's commitment to a lawful and measured response to cyber offences.
