SOCIAL media platforms, meant for democratic dialogue, are exploited to spread false narratives and manipulate public perception.

A case in point is the 2024 UK riots, where false claims about a stabbing incident led to violence and attacks on mosques and migrants. Authorities treated those spreading false narratives as contributors to public disorder, not journalists exercising free speech.

Pakistan faces a similar challenge, with a network of social media accounts and YouTubers spreading false allegations and inciting violence. The line between free speech and criminal incitement is legal, not ideological. When crossed, states must respond to maintain law and order. Recently awarded sentences to a few foreign-based absconders for spreading fake news to incite violence show how digital platforms are being misused.

The case of YouTuber and former military officer Adil Raja illustrates........

© Pakistan Observer