Hyderabad: Cyberabad Police have registered criminal cases against multiple social media handlers and online accounts for allegedly circulating photographs, videos, and identifying details of a minor girl involved in a POCSO case.
According to an official press release issued by the Pet-Basheerabad Police Station, Cyberabad, the action was initiated following a complaint lodged by the Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Medchal-Malkajgiri district.
The complaint raised serious concerns over the online circulation of:
- Photographs of the minor victim
- Videos linked to the case
- Personal details of the girl and her parents
- Identifying information related to the POCSO FIR
Police Register Fresh FIR Over Social Media Circulation
Based on the complaint, Cyberabad Police registered a separate criminal case under:
- Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice Act
- Section 72(1) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Section 23 of the POCSO Act
The case was registered vide FIR No. 706/2026.
Officials stated that revealing the identity of a child victim involved in a POCSO case is a serious legal violation under Indian law.
Instagram and Facebook Accounts Identified
Cyberabad Police stated that several Instagram and Facebook accounts involved in circulating the content have already been identified.
According to the police press release:
- Relevant URLs and account details were traced
- Information has been forwarded to concerned authorities
- Authorities are working to identify and trace account handlers
- Cases have been booked against those allegedly publishing and spreading the material
Officials stated that strict legal action will be taken against individuals involved in sharing or reposting such content online.
Police Warn Public and Influencers
Cyberabad Police issued a strong public warning stating that revealing the identity or personal details of a minor victim causes severe emotional distress and violates child protection laws.
The police specifically warned:
“Revealing the identity or personal details of a girl child/victim and her family involved in POCSO cases constitutes a serious legal violation. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in such acts.”
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The warning comes amid widespread circulation of uncensored videos, screenshots, edited clips, and personal details across social media platforms.
What the Law Says
Under Indian law, publishing or sharing identifying details of minor victims involved in sexual offence cases is prohibited.
Legal experts note that violations can attract:
- Criminal prosecution
- Imprisonment
- Fines
- Cybercrime investigation
- Account tracing and digital evidence collection
Section 23 of the POCSO Act specifically prohibits disclosure of a child victim’s identity through media, social media, photographs, videos, or any digital platform.
Social Media Monitoring Intensified
Cybercrime teams and police officials are reportedly monitoring viral content linked to the case across:
- X (Twitter)
- YouTube
- Telegram
- WhatsApp forwards
Officials said even reposting or forwarding such material may invite legal consequences if it contributes to revealing the identity of the child victim.
Appeal to Citizens
Police have appealed to citizens, influencers, content creators, and social media page administrators not to circulate sensitive content involving minors.
Authorities urged users to immediately delete and avoid forwarding any videos, photographs, or identifying material linked to the case.
Officials emphasized that protecting the dignity, privacy, and mental well-being of child victims is a legal and social responsibility.
