29 December,2025 09:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mumbai Police have also instructed officers to strictly enforce the Model Code of Conduct. Representational Pic/File/iStock
Ahead of the BMC Election 2026, Mumbai Police on Monday warned that strict action will be taken against YouTubers and social media influencers found spreading rumours or misleading information, reported the PTI.
Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections are scheduled for January 15.
A senior police official said the force is fully prepared to maintain law and order during the civic polls and has stepped up monitoring of online platforms.
The police have appointed a special officer to closely monitor activities on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
"If any YouTuber or social media influencer is found spreading false information, circulating rumours, blackmailing individuals, or targeting specific communities, strict legal action will be taken," the official said.
The official added that apart from local police units, additional personnel will be deployed across Mumbai during the election period. Patrolling will be intensified in sensitive areas, and tight security arrangements will be in place at polling booths and vote-counting centres.
Mumbai Police have also instructed officers to strictly enforce the Model Code of Conduct during the civic elections and follow a zero-tolerance approach against any violations.
Meanwhile, a case was registered against a man for allegedly assaulting a civic official and a videographer, who were on election duty, in Mumbai on Sunday, an official said, reported the PTI.
The incident took place near the Milan Subway in the Vile Parle area.
Ahead of the January 15 elections to the BMC, the State Election Commission has appointed flying squads to inspect vehicles. BMC official Suresh Rathod and videographer Dheeraj Panchal were part of one such flying squad.
After officials stopped a vehicle driven by the accused, Iftekhar Ahmed, Panchal began videorecording it as part of the election process. However, Ahmed allegedly lost his cool and asked the officials to stop recording, according to the PTI.
The accused then allegedly assaulted Rathod and Panchal and drove away. The two later approached the police.
Ahmed has been booked under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections, including 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from the discharge of his duty), the official said, the news agency reported.
(with PTI inputs)
