Bihar Cyber Crime Cell issues a formal notice to Meta, demanding account details behind threats to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar amid the hijab controversy. Authorities investigate cross-border involvement, increasing security and probing the viral threatening video on Instagram.
The Cyber Crime Cell of Patna has issued a formal notice to Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, seeking detailed information about the social media account responsible for posting a threatening video targeting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. This demand comes in the wake of rising tensions related to the ongoing hijab controversy in Bihar.
According to an official from the Patna Cyber Crime Cell, the notice specifically requests Meta to provide the IP address, login details, and other technical data linked to the account that uploaded the threatening content. “We have formally asked Meta to furnish all necessary information to help us identify and trace the user behind this alarming video,” the officer said.
The threatening video was posted on Instagram by an individual identifying himself as Shahzad Bhatti, who claims to be a don based in Pakistan. In the video, Bhatti issues an explicit warning to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, demanding an apology regarding the hijab issue and threatening consequences if his demands are not met. This video has raised serious concerns among law enforcement and intelligence agencies, prompting immediate action.
The incident has been linked directly to the hijab controversy that sparked heated debates and public unrest in Bihar. The controversy escalated after several educational institutions implemented restrictions on hijabs, leading to protests and political tension across the state.
On the orders of Bihar Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar, an FIR has been registered at the Patna Cyber Police Station. The case is being overseen by the Patna range Inspector General (IG), who is coordinating with cyber forensic experts to analyze the video’s authenticity, its upload source, and the dissemination pattern.
Authorities are also investigating whether the threatening account was operated from outside India and whether any organized foreign network could be involved in orchestrating the intimidation attempt. The information requested from Meta will be crucial in confirming the geographical location of the user.
Given the gravity of the threat, the Bihar Police have heightened security arrangements around Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Only select officers now have direct access to the CM to ensure his safety. Intelligence agencies are also closely monitoring social media platforms for any further threats or provocative content that might endanger public peace.
“The safety and dignity of the Chief Minister are paramount,” said a senior official from the Bihar government. “We will take stringent legal action against anyone attempting to threaten or compromise his security.”
Once Meta complies and shares the requested technical data, investigators will analyze the login details to trace the identity and location of the perpetrator. A special investigation team may be formed to conduct a thorough probe and bring the offenders to justice swiftly.
The hijab controversy, which has gained national and international attention, has become a sensitive flashpoint in Bihar’s political landscape. This cyber threat further underscores the challenges authorities face in maintaining law and order amid social and political unrest fueled by online platforms.
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The Patna Cyber Crime Cell’s proactive steps in summoning Meta for cooperation signal a robust approach towards curbing online threats and misuse of social media platforms for spreading intimidation. It also highlights the growing importance of cyber vigilance and cross-border cooperation in handling digital crimes that have real-world consequences.
As the investigation unfolds, Bihar’s government reiterates its commitment to upholding law, order, and communal harmony while ensuring the safety of its leaders and citizens.0
