Wikipedia Sambhaji Maharaj Row: Case Filed

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

Case registered against Wikipedia editors for not removing disputed content on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Maharashtra Cyber Cell sent notice to Wikimedia Foundation, but received no response from Wikipedia.
Objectionable content could incite unrest among thousands of followers of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
This issue emerged after the release of the Bollywood movie “Chhava,” based on Sambhaji Maharaj’s life.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that distortion of historical facts on Wikipedia won’t be tolerated.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

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The Cyber Cell of Maharashtra Police has filed a case against 4-5 Wikipedia editors for their failure to remove controversial content pertaining to the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Sources indicate that 4-5 individuals were involved in editing and spreading disinformation about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj on Wikipedia, which could potentially disrupt law and order. This Wikipedia Sambhaji row is escalating.

Cyber Cell Action

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Previously, the Cyber Cell issued a notice to the US-based Wikimedia Foundation, requesting a response to its demand to remove the content. However, Wikipedia has not yet responded. The Cyber Cell sent 15 emails to Wikipedia without receiving a reply. The department’s notice stated that the objectionable content could lead to unrest among the thousands of followers of Sambhaji Maharaj. Consequently, authorities decided to register a case against the editors.

Violation of IT Act

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Officials stated that Wikipedia violated Sections 69 and 79 of the IT Act, which governs the government’s power to monitor and intercept online information. This violation is being taken seriously by the authorities. The Cyber Cell’s investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of the misinformation and its impact.

Impact of the Film “Chhava”

The objections to the Wikipedia content arose following the release of the Bollywood film “Chhava,” which depicts the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Vicky Kaushal portrayed Sambhaji Maharaj, while Rashmika Mandhana played Maharani Yesubai. The film’s release has brought renewed attention to Sambhaji Maharaj’s history. Historical accuracy is crucial when portraying such figures.

Chief Minister’s Directive

Given the severity of the situation, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis instructed the Cyber Cell to promptly engage with Wikipedia, emphasizing that distortion of historical facts on open-source platforms would not be tolerated. “Freedom of expression is not unlimited. It cannot encroach on the freedom of others,” Fadnavis stressed. His directive highlights the government’s stance on maintaining historical accuracy and preventing the spread of misinformation. The government wants to address the Wikipedia Sambhaji row immediately.

Wikipedia’s Independence

Wikipedia, a free-content online encyclopedia, operates independently of India. The encyclopedia is maintained by volunteers who contribute to and edit articles. This decentralized nature allows for wide participation but also presents challenges in ensuring accuracy and preventing the spread of biased or misleading information. The platform relies on community moderation to maintain quality, but this is not always effective.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

Case filed against Wikipedia editors for failing to remove controversial content on Sambhaji Maharaj.
Cyber Cell sent notice to Wikimedia Foundation, but received no response from Wikipedia.
Objectionable content could lead to unrest among followers of Sambhaji Maharaj.
The issue emerged after the release of the movie “Chhava”.
CM Fadnavis said that distortion of historical facts on Wikipedia won’t be tolerated.