Insta
Facebook Deletes 687 Accounts Associated With Congress IT Cell, Mostly Used To Attack PM Modi, BJP
Swarajya Staff
Apr 01, 2019, 04:04 PM | Updated 04:03 PM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Facebook in a statement on Monday (1 April) announced that it has removed 678 accounts and pages active on its platform which were associated with individuals linked to the Congress IT cell.
These pages were removed over charges of coordinated inauthentic behaviour in India. Most of them were removed by the social media giant’s automated systems.
The handlers reportedly created fake accounts and joined various FB groups to increase the engagement and reach of their pages. The pages were also involved in criticising Congress’ political opponents including the BJP. These accounts spent about Rs 25 lakh to Rs 30 lakh on advertising since 2014.
Some of the accounts spread content like, Uproot and throw Raman Government, Rahul Gandhi’s call for “Justice” against Modi’s Injustice. One of the now banned page was named Jo Feku, based on a derogatory term used against Prime Minister Modi by his critics.
In addition to this, Facebook has also removed 103 pages, groups and account instrumental in creating pro-Pakistani Army content. The Facebook based on an investigation concluded that the handlers of the accounts were employees of Pakistani Military’s Inter-Service Public Relations wing.
The content peddled by these pages included pro-Pakistan propaganda and attacks against the Indian Air Force.
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Introducing ElectionsHQ + 50 Ground Reports Project
The 2024 elections might seem easy to guess, but there are some important questions that shouldn't be missed.
Do freebies still sway voters? Do people prioritise infrastructure when voting? How will Punjab vote?
The answers to these questions provide great insights into where we, as a country, are headed in the years to come.
Swarajya is starting a project with an aim to do 50 solid ground stories and a smart commentary service on WhatsApp, a one-of-a-kind. We'd love your support during this election season.
Click below to contribute.