Just a day after the change of power in West Bengal following 15 years of political rule, tension and unrest have surfaced across several parts of the state. While the administration has intensified security measures to prevent post-election violence, Kolkata Police has now issued a fresh warning over the circulation of fake notifications on social media aimed at spreading panic.
Fake Kolkata Police notification goes viral
According to police sources, a fabricated message carrying the Kolkata Police logo has been widely circulated online. The message falsely claimed that the law and order situation had deteriorated in areas such as Ripon Street, Janbazar and nearby localities.
The fake notification urged residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement until the situation returned to normal. It also included instructions resembling an official police advisory, asking people not to believe rumours and to rely only on government sources for verified information.
The viral message further stated that citizens should follow Kolkata Police’s official social media handles and contact emergency services or nearby police stations if required.
Kolkata Police dismisses claims, urges public not to panic
Kolkata Police has categorically denied the claims made in the viral notification. Officials clarified that no such law and order issue has been reported from Ripon Street, Janbazar or adjoining areas.
Police authorities urged residents not to fall for fake messages circulating on social media and advised people to verify information only through official government platforms or trusted police communication channels.
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With the new government set to formally take charge, the administration is closely monitoring online activity to prevent misinformation from triggering fresh unrest in sensitive areas.
Post-election violence claims raise concern
The warning over fake news comes at a time when several districts in Bengal are already witnessing post-poll tension after the Assembly election results.
Many residents had earlier expressed relief over the relatively peaceful voting process conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The absence of major casualties during polling had sparked hope for a shift in Bengal’s long-criticised culture of political violence.
However, anxiety has returned after reports of clashes and unrest emerged from multiple regions soon after the declaration of results.
According to sources, four people reportedly died in incidents linked to post-election violence between Monday night and Tuesday night. Among the deceased were allegedly two Trinamool workers and two BJP workers.
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Meanwhile, Nazat police station OC Bharat Prasun Kar and a constable were also reportedly injured while attempting to control violence in affected areas.
Administration on alert across Bengal
The state administration has maintained that strict measures are being taken to prevent escalation of violence and avoid further loss of life. Security deployment has been increased in several sensitive pockets, while police continue to monitor rumours and provocative content spreading online.
Authorities have once again appealed to the public not to share unverified messages, warning that fake news during politically sensitive periods can worsen tensions on the ground.
