FIR registered in Sikkim over fake social media document claiming Darjeeling-Sikkim merger

The Sikkim home department has lodged an FIR against unknown persons for circulating a forged document claiming a merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling, attributed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Sikkim home department on Friday lodged an FIR seeking immediate legal and cyber action against unknown persons for creating and circulating a forged document falsely attributed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming a purported merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling, officials said.

According to an official communication, the fabricated document was widely circulated on social media with the intent to spread misinformation, create panic, and disturb communal harmony and public order in the state.

Taking serious cognisance of the matter, the state government directed registration of an FIR and initiation of an investigation into the origin and circulation of the fake content.

Accordingly, an FIR has been registered at Sadar police station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act.

The investigation has been handed over to the Cyber Crime police station for technical analysis to trace the origin, IP addresses and individuals involved in creating and disseminating the content.

According to the communication, the state government has also initiated necessary steps for blocking and removal of the misleading content from social media platforms in coordination with the authorities.

Surveillance and monitoring mechanisms have further been strengthened to prevent the spread of misinformation and malicious propaganda online, it said.

The state government has appealed to the public to refrain from believing, sharing, or circulating any unverified and fabricated information that may adversely affect peace, unity, and communal harmony in Sikkim.

The government further reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity, unity, and harmony of the state and stated that strict legal and cyber enforcement action would be taken against individuals found involved in spreading misinformation through digital and social media platforms.