Jaipur/Bhilwara | RBN News
Rajasthan Police have arrested 11 individuals in Bhilwara district for allegedly spreading false information about shortages of LPG, petrol, and diesel on social media platforms in an attempt to gain online visibility and increase follower counts.
Delhi Teen Arrested for Stabbing Neighbour After Harassment Complaint, Police Probe Underway
The action comes amid heightened public sensitivity around fuel availability, with authorities reiterating that there is no shortage of essential fuels in the state.
Police Action Against Rumour Spreaders
According to Bhilwara Superintendent of Police Dharmendra Singh, the arrests were made as part of a preventive crackdown on misinformation.
He said several individuals had been circulating misleading content claiming a shortage of LPG and fuel, despite repeated clarifications from the administration.
“We have taken preventive action against those spreading rumours. Social media platforms are being continuously monitored, and strict action will be taken against violators,” the SP said.
Police indicated that further legal action could be initiated if such activities continue.
Social Media Monitoring Led to Identification
The Bhilwara Police said its Social Media Cell tracked and identified the individuals responsible for circulating misleading posts and videos.
According to officials, the content created confusion among the public and triggered unnecessary panic, potentially leading to increased demand and hoarding behaviour.
Police stated that the accused were deliberately spreading misinformation to:
- Increase views and engagement on social media
- Gain followers and expand digital reach
- Leverage trending topics for visibility
Authorities described the activity as harmful to public order, particularly during periods of heightened concern over fuel supplies.
Influencer Group Among Those Arrested
Among those detained were individuals associated with the social media handle “Berozgaar Boyzz”, which reportedly has over 1.4 million followers on Instagram.
Police said the group was involved in creating and sharing content that contributed to the spread of rumours.
Arrests were carried out across multiple police jurisdictions:
- Four individuals by Banera police station
- Two by Badliyas police station
- One each by Subhash Nagar and Gandhi Nagar police stations
Eight of the accused have since been released after initial questioning.
Police Statement on Public Impact
In an official statement, Bhilwara Police said that the misinformation campaign had created unnecessary fear among citizens.
Officials warned that false claims about shortages of essential commodities could disrupt supply chains by triggering panic buying and misinformation-driven demand spikes.
The police reiterated that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol, or diesel in the region.
Accused Issue Apology
Some of the accused later released apology videos, stating that the content had been created without intent to cause panic.
One individual said the video was meant for comedic purposes, while another acknowledged that sharing such content was a mistake and confirmed that fuel supplies were normal.
Police, however, maintained that even unintended misinformation can have serious consequences and must be dealt with firmly.
Background: Rising Concern Over Misinformation
The arrests come at a time when concerns around fuel supply have been amplified by global developments, including disruptions in energy supply chains.
Authorities across states have been issuing advisories to counter misinformation and prevent panic.
Law enforcement agencies have increasingly focused on monitoring digital platforms to curb the spread of false information related to essential services.
What Happens Next
Police have indicated that monitoring of social media platforms will continue, and further action may be taken if similar content is identified.
Authorities are expected to:
- Strengthen digital surveillance of misinformation
- Initiate legal proceedings where required
- Continue public advisories to prevent panic
The case highlights growing regulatory scrutiny over misinformation on social media, particularly when it concerns essential commodities and public welfare.
