Srinagar, The National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Srinagar has been closed, and students are asked to vacate the campus and hostels amid rising tensions over an alleged blasphemous post by a non-local student. Other degree colleges across Kashmir have also been directed to commence online classes from tomorrow.
The administration, citing the “early onset of winter,” has suspended physical classes in colleges, while high schools and higher secondary schools continue regular classes in Kashmir. The controversy arose when a non-local NIT student posted an alleged blasphemous post on social media, leading to extensive protests within the institute. Subsequently, protests spread to other colleges in the city.
In response to the situation, heavy security covers the NIT campus, and academic activities are temporarily suspended to prevent further unrest. The accused student faces charges for hurting the religious sentiments of a particular community.
A new provision under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) is being introduced to control social media usage and prevent the spread of communal disharmony. Rashmi Ranjan Swain, Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police, stated that posting content disrespecting Prophet Muhammad will be deemed a crime under this provision.
The police have taken cognizance of the incident, registering a case (FIR No.156/23 u/s 295A, 153A, 153 IPC) against the student for posting sensitive content. Authorities appeal to the public to refrain from spreading rumors and false information, warning of legal action against those involved in provocative acts or instigation.
As NIT Srinagar remains closed, the region grapples with the aftermath of the social media controversy, prompting a reevaluation of laws to address communal disharmony. The incident underscores the broader challenges of managing sensitive content in the digital age.
