The Uttarakhand government has ordered strict action against those circulating misleading videos and false information about the Char Dham Yatra, and police have registered an FIR in one such case after a social media post allegedly spread incorrect claims about devotees being denied darshan at Kedarnath.
Misleading Video Triggers Police Action
The state government said the Char Dham Yatra is being conducted in an orderly, safe and successful manner under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. It said arrangements related to pilgrim facilities, health services, traffic management, disaster safety and digital monitoring have been strengthened to ensure smooth and organised darshan for devotees.
Some anti-social elements were attempting to mislead the public and damage the image of the state by circulating misleading, unverified and factually incorrect videos or material about the pilgrimage on social media platforms. During social media monitoring in Rudraprayag district, authorities came across one such video that allegedly spread false information about pilgrims being deprived of darshan at Kedarnath Dham.
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FIR Registered, More Videos Under Scrutiny
Taking the matter seriously, police at Sonprayag police station registered an FIR against the person concerned and began further legal action. The case is under investigation.
Four to five other suspicious videos have been identified and are being examined in detail. The government indicated that strict legal action would be taken against those found responsible in accordance with the rules.
Government Says Zero Tolerance Will Apply
The state government has made clear that arrangements linked to the Char Dham Yatra are fully functional and that devotees are being provided organised access for darshan. It added that any misleading information, rumour or malicious campaign would be dealt with under a policy of zero tolerance.
Social media platforms are being monitored round the clock and stringent legal action will be taken against offenders. The Chief Minister also said that no one would be spared for attempting to undermine the dignity of Uttarakhand’s faith, devotion and the Char Dham Yatra. The government appealed to residents, pilgrims and social media users to rely only on information from official sources and avoid sharing unverified, misleading or suspicious content.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
