Srinagar, Mar 28 : The rampant presence of Facebook or Social Media hawkers on social networking sites has raised serious concerns about the credibility of journalism in Kashmir, with many unverified platforms tarnishing the image of professional journalists.
In a recent case, nine Facebook page administrators were summoned by the Sopore Court for uploading a controversial video that allegedly defamed an individual.
The summoned social media hawkers include Kashmir Network, Viral Kashmir Bazar, Awantipora Pulwama, Angel Aqsa, Sadaye Kashmir, Dar Towseef, Bhat Rahil, Javid Ahmad Reshi, and JK Taza News.
The case pertains to a viral video showing Zahid Gani Mirchal, a resident of Tujjar Sharif, Sopore, being beaten and humiliated by a woman who accused him of duping her brother and extorting money. These Facebook hawkers uploaded the video across multiple platforms, prompting the accused in the video to approach the court through his legal counsel, alleging that his reputation had been tarnished.
Taking cognizance of the matter, the Sopore Court issued summons to all nine individuals involved, with the next hearing scheduled for May 14, 2024.
Meanwhile, Burhan Hussaini, the admin of Kashmir Bulletin, expressed dismay over being wrongly summoned, stating that a fake Facebook page using the same name—‘Kashmir Bulletin’—had uploaded the video. He urged authorities and the complainant to identify and penalize the real culprits behind the fake page instead of targeting his legitimate news platform.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing trend of unregulated Facebook pages posing as news sources, often publishing unverified and defamatory content without ethical considerations. Observers say such reckless behavior by social media hawkers has significantly damaged the credibility of journalism in Kashmir, with genuine journalists suffering the consequences of this digital chaos.
Legal experts believe that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for social media accountability in the region. [KNT]
