'Disclose your identity or...' controversial meme targeting Mamata Banerjee sparks police investigation

A viral meme video featuring West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee has gained widespread attention on the internet. The video, generated using artificial intelligence (AI), depicted Banerjee entering a stage and dancing to a remix created from one of her humorous speeches. Shared initially on social media platform X, the video quickly spread across various social media platforms, attracting a significant number of views and shares.

The meme video, which surfaced on Saturday (May 4), swiftly garnered a large number of views and shares, amassing over 20k views within a short span. It showcased Banerjee in a light-hearted manner, using snippets from a political rally she attended several years ago, where she was heard saying, “hamba hamba, ramba ramba, kamba kamba, dumba dumba, bumba bumba, bomba bomba.”

Police Notice to Social Media User

The individual who shared the video under the account name "Spitting Facts (Modi Ka Parivar)" received a notice from the Kolkata Police's Cyber Crime Division. The notice cited the post as offensive, malicious, and inciting, prompting the police to request the user's identity disclosure.

Kolkata Cyber Police's Response

Responding to the viral video, the Cyber Crime Division of the Kolkata Police called upon the social media user to disclose their name and residence. Failure to comply with this request could result in legal action under section 42 CrPC. The police emphasised the need for responsible online behaviour and compliance with the law.

User's Perspective

The user who shared the meme expressed surprise at receiving a notice from the Kolkata Police for posting a humorous meme about Mamata Banerjee. They highlighted the irony of such actions in a state often praised for its freedom of speech, contrasting it with perceptions of democracy under the BJP government.

Police Directive to Delete Post

In addition to requesting identity disclosure, the Kolkata Cyber Police instructed the user to delete the post promptly. Failure to comply would lead to strict legal repercussions as per relevant laws governing online content.

Public Reaction

Following news of the police notice, many social media users shared the meme with a satirical message, mocking the perceived overreach of authorities in policing online content.