WhatsApp groups in J-K asked to register with the district magistrate

The aim of this regulation is to curb the alleged spread of rumours on groups

The aim of this regulation is to curb the alleged spread of rumours on groups

A circular has been issued in Jammu and Kashmir by the District Magistrate of Kupwara that mandates the registration of WhatsApp news groups.

The aim of this regulation is to curb the alleged spread of rumours on groups.

The circular calls for every group to be registered with the District Magistrate. The registered groups will also be monitored by the authority for any acts of provocation and scrutinised. Also, the Group Administrators will be held accountable under law for any such conduct resulting in incidents.

Notice: Running a WhatsApp group in #Kashmir? Get a license. @ShashiTharoor @abdullah_omar HT @fainalysis pic.twitter.com/oV47VfrLHE

— Prasanto K Roy (@prasanto) April 19, 2016

Government employees were discouraged for being participants to WhatsApp groups and warned of serious action if found commenting on government policies.

The SSP, SP and Tehsildars of Kupwara have been given the responsibility of keeping a close eye on the WhatsApp groups registered and report any activity that calls for legal action.