Kerala Assembly Polls 2026: Strict action to be taken against fake, misleading social media content

The Kerala Police cyber operations undertook a coordinated action to curb the circulation of misleading and potentially harmful content on social media platforms in connection with the assembly elections. It has been observed that certain images and content, which were subsequently clarified by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Kerala, through official communication and press briefing, continued to be circulated across platforms in a misleading manner.

These were being used as part of a misinformation campaign, with the potential to adversely impact the integrity of the electoral process and erode public trust. In view of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) being in force, and in order to uphold the principles of free and fair elections, the cyber operations initiated necessary takedown measures against such content.

The steps were taken in accordance with the legal framework and the mandate to prevent misuse of digital platforms for spreading misinformation, defamation, and content capable of disturbing public order, said a statement here on Tuesday.

In order to curb misinformation, fake news, defamation, communal provocation, and MCC violations, a significant number of URLs have also been processed and removed, with cooperation of the social media intermediaries and digital platforms.

The State Police reiterated its commitment to ensure that digital platforms are not misused with a view to spread false narrative and influence the electoral process. Strict action will continue against those found involved in spreading false or misleading information. Citizens are advised to rely only on verified and official sources of information and to refrain from sharing unverified content, said the statement.