The Andhra Pradesh High Court recently addressed concerns surrounding police actions against social media posts, following a petition filed by journalist Vijayababu. The petition highlighted the increasing number of cases being registered by the police against social media activists. The court, however, questioned the logic behind opposing police actions against individuals posting obscene content, stating that such cases were warranted.
The bench also pointed out that some social media posts were aimed at disrespecting judges and clarified that it would not issue blanket orders to halt police actions on such posts. The court emphasized that anyone dissatisfied with the cases filed by the police could approach the court directly. As for the police’s handling of obscene posts, the court asserted that as long as the police were acting within legal bounds, it would not interfere. The bench assured that it would issue appropriate orders based on the petition.
In line with the court’s observations, the Andhra Pradesh police have been actively cracking down on those posting objectionable content on social media. Over the past week, several cases have been filed, resulting in multiple arrests. Notices have also been sent to others for questioning. Many of those involved are reportedly connected to the YSR Congress Party, and the police have filed cases against some of its social media in-charges, as well as prominent individuals like director Ram Gopal Varma and actor Posani.