The spread of rumours about arrests being made in the city in connection with the that rocked Mumbai on Monday has become a matter of concern for the police. Senior police officials felt such rumours could have led to communal disturbances in the city besides hampering police investigations.
The Indian Express on Wednesday had reported how rumours about arrests had led to chaos among media and police during Monday night. Taking congnizance of the rumours a few newspapers and TV channels had reported that two persons were arrested in the city in connection with the blasts.
With mobiles, pagers and SMS communication becoming cheap and common, rumour mongers had a field day.
Police Commissioner A N Roy warned that rumour mongering is likely to become a serious problem, especially if it is in connection with a grave offence like rioting or explosions which have the potential of affecting public peace and tranquillity.
‘‘At times, situation may go out of hands due to rumours. Besides, it is also likely to throw investigations off the track. Moreover, it may even alert the culprits about a planned police crackdown and make it possible for them to flee in time. Thankfully, the residents showed a lot of restraint this time,’’ he said.
Roy felt the media should be more cautious while dealing with rumours. ‘‘The media should show more restraint. Though the Right to Information is absolute, only what is of public concern should be brought to the public domain,’’ he felt.
Roy was all praise for Puneites who he said did not succumb to rumour mongering. He said he would expect similar cooperation from them during the coming Ganesh festival.
‘‘For over a month now, I have been talking about the threat of subversive activities during the festival and asking workers of Ganesh Mandals to take appropriate precautions. Residents should be more vigilant and alert to ward off any mischief. We are taking all possible precautionary measures and the situation is well under control. There is no need to get worried or panicked. But, we need help and cooperation from everyone for ensuring safety of all. All that we expect the citizens to do is to inform us about any abnormal activity,’’ he said.
Police advisory
Don’t panic over rumours
Inform the police about suspicious movements
Don’t handle unclaimed objects
Don’t leave vehicles unattended at pubic places
Report theft of vehicles immediately
Ensure round the clock vigil in the vicinity of ganesh pandals and idols