Nagpur: At least 54 viral propaganda songs and videos glorifying slain Maoist commander Hidma were removed from YouTube and other social media platforms this week following a request from Maharashtra's Anti-Naxal Operations (ANO) unit to the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In).
Background of the Propaganda
After Hidma was eliminated by security forces in November last year, Maoist sympathizers flooded social media with content portraying him as a tribal hero who fought for their cause. The coordinated action between Maharashtra's anti-Maoist apparatus and CERT-In is seen as a strong message against digital radicalization in Naxalite-hit regions.
Operation Details
The operation was led by IG Sandeep Patil of Anti-Naxal Operations in coordination with the state intelligence department as part of intelligence-based exercises. The viral content extolling Hidma as a tribal warlord had created ripples in Bastar, Kanker, Gadchiroli, and surrounding areas, forcing ANO to act against the propaganda machinery, according to top sources.
Previous Legal Actions
Earlier, multiple police cases were filed against those promoting the songs. In Pune, an offense was registered against students for playing and praising Hidma songs on campus. Similarly, in Gadchiroli's Etapalli taluka, five people were booked for playing Hidma songs during a wedding. Similar incidents were also reported near India Gate in Delhi.
IG Patil's Statement
IG Patil stated that projecting Hidma as a hero was wrong. He pointed out that Hidma-led guerrillas were responsible for killing nearly 6,000 innocent tribals in Bastar, Kanker, Gadchiroli, and nearby districts. "Hidma misguided tribals to believe in a banned ideology and pick up arms against security forces. Brainwashed tribal youths ended up behind bars or got neutralized," said Patil.
The removal of these videos marks a significant step in curbing online radicalization and ensuring that the narrative around Maoist leaders does not glorify violence or illegal activities.
