Assam police arrests 21 individuals for posts supporting Delhi terror attack

Assam Police have arrested 21 individuals from various districts for allegedly posting social media content that appeared to support or celebrate the recent terror attack near Delhi’s Red Fort. The arrests come in the aftermath of a car blast that killed several people, prompting authorities to intensify cyber monitoring across the state.

Police officials said the individuals shared comments, emojis, and messages on platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and X that were viewed as pro-terror or anti-national. According to the authorities, such posts amount to endorsing acts of terrorism and can attract serious legal consequences. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the state has adopted a “zero-tolerance” approach to any online content that glorifies violence or undermines national security. More than 100 posts are currently under examination, and further arrests have not been ruled out.

Those arrested include residents from districts such as Darrang, Goalpara, Chirang, Bongaigaon, and Kamrup. In addition to the arrests, police have issued advisories urging citizens to exercise caution while engaging on social media, especially during sensitive situations involving national security.

India’s cyber and criminal laws classify certain online behaviour as offences when they threaten public order or national interest. Posting or sharing supportive messages related to terrorism or violent acts may lead to action under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Indian Penal Code, or provisions of the Information Technology Act. Social media platforms also have strict guidelines against praising extremist acts or groups, and authorities can request removal of such content or initiate legal proceedings. Officials have stressed that even seemingly casual reactions, such as celebratory emojis on a terror incident, may be treated as endorsement depending on context.