Facebook User Booked for Alleged Insult to Mahatma Gandhi

Rapid Summary

• On September 8, 2025, the cyber crime police registered an FIR against a Facebook account holder for allegedly disregarding Mahatma Gandhi in a social media post.
• The accused runs the Facebook account named “Akhanda Hindustan.”
• Charges were filed under Section 66(C) of the IT Act (identity theft) and Section 354 (coerced or manipulated actions) of BNS.
• The specific post was uploaded on Teachers’ Day (September 5, 2025), wishing all teachers except “those who taught us Mahatma Gandhi got us freedom,” which was considered derogatory.
• Social media monitoring staff flagged the post as possibly harmful, saying it could spread fake news and societal disturbance.
• The investigation will also examine how widely the post was liked and shared.

Image: Representation purposes only | Photo Credit: RAO GN

Indian Opinion Analysis

This case highlights ongoing complexities in addressing online speech within India’s legal framework. While freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, posts disrespectful to national figures like Mahatma Gandhi can raise questions of permissible limits under public order laws. Charging under Section 66(C) underscores stricter enforcement against impersonation or misuse of digital identities whereas invoking societal disruption suggests concern over virality impacting harmony.

Government monitoring cell interventions suggest an increasing focus on regulating narratives that distort ancient truth or promote divisiveness online. while such measures aim to safeguard national cohesion, they must balance rigor with adherence to democratic principles protecting free speech-one area where implementation practices often receive scrutiny.

To read more: The Hindu