Social Media Controversy: Shanimol Usman Propaganda Case

A police case has been registered against Facebook pages accused of spreading false propaganda about former Aroor MLA Shanimol Usman leaving Congress for CPI(M). The pages allegedly spread misleading content, claiming Usman was in talks with CPI(M) leaders, prompting a defamation complaint under relevant sections.

A police case has been filed against several Facebook pages for allegedly spreading false information about former Aroor MLA Shanimol Usman leaving the Congress to join CPI(M). According to the police, the case was lodged based on a complaint by Usman, who is a senior Congress leader, against pages such as 'Communist Kerala' and 'John Brittas Fans Group.' These pages are accused of disseminating misleading information to the public.

Widespread social media posts suggested that Usman intended to leave the Congress amid disagreements over the expulsion of MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. The posts also falsely stated that she had conducted discussions with Industries Minister P Rajeev and communicated with the chief minister about her alleged decision.

The First Information Report (FIR) reveals that the case, registered under section 356 (2) concerning defamation of BNS and section 120 (o) of the Kerala Police Act for causing nuisance through communication, targets unknown individuals. The accused allegedly shared Usman's photo along with misleading content to damage her reputation, as per the FIR.