The Cyber police in Mumbai on Monday registered an FIR against a group of TikTok users who allegedly put up a video with objectionable statements on the recent death of Tabrez Ansari in Jharkhand.
Ansari, a member of the Dalit community, was reportedly caught while trying to steal a bike, after which he was allegedly beaten to death. The incident sparked an outcry across the country, with three people being arrested. A video of the supposed lynching was also circulated on social media.
According to the police, the five TikTok users shot a video of themselves and posted it on Monday, which went viral within hours. Social media users brought it to the notice of the Mumbai Police. The police said the video was viewed and after the content was found to have potential to fan the fire, an FIR was registered on Monday evening.
“The accused have been booked for promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion under the Indian Penal Code, along with relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. We are conducting inquiries into the matter,” a police officer said.
The video was taken off social media platforms by Monday night.