Mon Jan 19 09:03:53 UTC 2026: # Social Media Posts Incite Inter-State Tensions; Two Arrested in Erode

The Story:
On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the Erode district police arrested K. Silambarasan, 36, of Mamarathupalayam and J. Abdul Malik, 20, of B.P. Agraharam, both functionaries of the Jananaayaga Elurchi Kazhagam. They are accused of posting provocative content on social media intended to incite tension between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The police allege that the posts targeted people from Karnataka and spread messages that could disrupt harmony between the two states.

The specific content included statements opposing the movement of Karnataka-registered vehicles into Tamil Nadu, with the potential to provoke unrest and law-and-order problems. A case was registered at the Erode North Police Station, and the accused were remanded to judicial custody after appearing before a magistrate court. Superintendent of Police A. Sujatha issued a press release warning of stringent legal action against anyone creating, sharing, or forwarding social media content that promotes enmity on the basis of caste, religion, between states, or that threatens public peace.

  • Key Points:

  • Date: Arrests made on January 18, 2026.

  • Location: Erode, Tamil Nadu.
  • Accused: K. Silambarasan, 36, and J. Abdul Malik, 20, members of Jananaayaga Elurchi Kazhagam.
  • Charges: Posting provocative content on social media inciting tension between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
  • Nature of Content: Opposing the movement of Karnataka-registered vehicles into Tamil Nadu.
  • Legal Action: Arrested and remanded to judicial custody.

  • Police Warning: Stringent legal action against similar offenses.

  • Key Takeaways:

  • Social media is being actively monitored by law enforcement to prevent the incitement of inter-state tensions.

  • Content opposing the free movement of people and vehicles between states is viewed as a potential threat to public order.
  • Authorities are taking a proactive stance against the use of social media to spread divisive messages.
  • The incident highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain social harmony, particularly in a diverse and interconnected nation like India.

  • Legal ramifications for sharing or creating inflammatory content online are being emphasized by law enforcement agencies.

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