Karnataka Activist Puneeth Kerehalli Charged for False Allegations Against DG&IGP Saleem

In a significant development, the cybercrime police have registered a new case against cow vigilante and right-wing activist Puneeth Kerehalli, along with his associates, for allegedly disseminating false information about Director-General and Inspector-General of Police (DG&IGP) M.A. Saleem.

The case stems from an incident where Kerehalli and his group reportedly visited a settlement near Swetha Farm in Kemapapura, close to Soladevanahalli in north Bengaluru. There, they made claims that Bangladeshi nationals were being harbored at the location.

According to police records, Kerehalli and his associates alleged that Bangladeshi individuals had been trafficked to the property, which belongs to one Sakina Tasmeen. The group further alleged that the property was a ‘benami’ holding—an asset held in someone else’s name—of DG&IGP Saleem.

“The group conducted a live broadcast on social media platforms falsely claiming that Bangladeshi Muslims had established a settlement in Bengaluru. These allegations are provocative and could potentially incite social and communal tensions,” stated the police complaint.

The Bengaluru City Police’s social media monitoring cell identified the controversial video circulating on Facebook and other platforms on January 23, prompting an officer to file a formal complaint with the City Cybercrime Police Station.

Authorities have charged the accused under relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act, as well as sections 196 and 353 of the recently implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Section 196 addresses the promotion of enmity between different groups based on religion, race, place of birth, residence, or language, while section 353 pertains to statements conducive to public mischief.

A senior police official confirmed that investigations are currently underway. This marks the third case filed against Kerehalli within a span of just ten days, adding to his existing record of 13 cases within the Bengaluru City Police jurisdiction.

The incident highlights the growing concern over vigilantism and the misuse of social media to spread potentially divisive content. Law enforcement agencies across India have been increasingly vigilant about monitoring online platforms for content that could disturb communal harmony, especially allegations targeting minority communities.

The phenomenon of self-appointed “vigilantes” taking law enforcement into their own hands has become a contentious issue in recent years. These groups often use social media to amplify their activities and claims, reaching wider audiences instantly and sometimes causing real-world repercussions before authorities can intervene.

Bengaluru, known as India’s technology hub, has witnessed several instances where social media has played a role in amplifying communal tensions. The city’s police force has consequently enhanced its digital surveillance capabilities, establishing dedicated cells to monitor potentially inflammatory content.

The case also underscores the serious implications of making unfounded allegations against high-ranking police officials. False claims against senior law enforcement officers not only potentially damage individual reputations but may also undermine public trust in institutions tasked with maintaining law and order.

Legal experts note that the application of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, demonstrates authorities’ commitment to addressing modern forms of speech-related offenses, particularly those amplified through digital platforms.

As the investigation continues, the case serves as a reminder of the fine balance between freedom of expression and the responsibility to prevent communal disharmony in India’s diverse social fabric.