Hyderabad cybercrime police file cases over online harassment of a reality-show contestant and derogatory posts by actor Srikanth Iyengar. Learn about the legal actions, penalties, and relevant sections of the IT Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in this detailed analysis.
Introduction
The Hyderabad Cybercrime Police recently registered two significant cases highlighting the growing concern of online abuse and irresponsible digital speech. One case involves a reality-show contestant who faced targeted harassment on social media, while the other concerns actor Srikanth Iyengar, who allegedly made disrespectful comments about Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti. Both cases have invoked sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, marking strong legal action against cyber offenses and digital defamation.
Case 1: Harassment of a Reality-Show Contestant
The first case was filed after a complaint by the parent of a young medical student participating in a Telugu reality show. According to reports, several individuals circulated abusive and defamatory content about her on platforms like YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. The content was intended to damage her reputation and mental well-being.
After reviewing the digital evidence, including screenshots and links, the Hyderabad Cybercrime Police registered a case under the Information Technology Act, Section 67, and Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which protects the modesty and dignity of women. The investigation aims to trace the individuals responsible for spreading the offensive material online.
Case 2: Srikanth Iyengar’s Remarks on Mahatma Gandhi
In the second case, actor Srikanth Iyengar allegedly made disparaging remarks about Mahatma Gandhi through videos shared on social media during Gandhi Jayanti. In the videos, he was accused of mocking people who observe the day by abstaining from alcohol and making statements perceived as glorifying Nathuram Godse, Gandhi’s assassin.
Following a complaint from MLC Venkat Balmoor, police registered a case under Section 67 of the IT Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for promoting hatred and using indecent or obscene expressions online. Authorities are examining the video content to determine intent and public impact.
Legal Provisions and Their Implications
Section 67 – Information Technology Act, 2000
This section penalizes the publishing or transmission of obscene or offensive content in electronic form. Any person who shares or circulates such material can face up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹5 lakh for the first offense. Subsequent offenses attract harsher punishment, with up to five years in prison and a ₹10 lakh fine.
Although this section primarily addresses sexually explicit or obscene material, courts and cybercrime units have also applied it in cases involving defamatory, abusive, or morally offensive online posts, depending on the nature of the content and its impact on public morality.
Section 79 – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
This section replaces Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and focuses on protecting the modesty and privacy of women. Any person who uses words, gestures, or digital expressions intended to insult a woman’s dignity can face imprisonment of up to three years and a fine.
In the case of the reality-show contestant, online comments and videos attacking her character fall directly within this legal definition, giving authorities the power to prosecute offenders for gender-based online abuse.
Sections Related to Public Order and Defamation (BNS)
In cases like Srikanth Iyengar’s, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita also includes provisions equivalent to Sections 153A and 504 of the old IPC, which deal with promoting enmity, intentional insult, or provocation to disturb public peace. These laws help authorities curb hate speech and maintain social harmony in the digital space.
Why These Cases Matter
These incidents highlight the increasing legal scrutiny on digital behavior in India. The cases show that the cybercrime division is actively addressing online harassment, defamation, and hate speech using both technology-specific laws (IT Act) and the updated penal code (BNS). They also emphasize the importance of responsible speech online, where the freedom of expression must not cross into defamation or disrespect.
FAQs
What is the punishment for online harassment under Indian law?
Under Section 67 of the IT Act, offenders can face up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹5 lakh for the first offense. If the victim is a woman, additional provisions under Section 79 BNS may apply.
Can social media posts lead to criminal cases?
Yes. Any post, video, or comment that defames, insults, or spreads hatred can be prosecuted under the IT Act or Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
What should victims of online abuse do?
Victims should collect digital evidence (screenshots, URLs, timestamps) and file a complaint with the Cybercrime Police through the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in).
Conclusion:
The Hyderabad cybercrime cases demonstrate that India’s legal system is evolving to tackle cyber harassment and digital misconduct effectively. Whether it involves a celebrity or a private individual, online accountability is now a legal reality, reinforcing the message that freedom of expression must coexist with respect and responsibility.
