New amendment made to Kerala Police Act won't be used against free speech, impartial journalism: CM Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After widespread criticism about the new amendment made to the Kerala Police Act, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that it will in no way be used against free speech or impartial journalism and apprehensions to the contrary are unfounded.

"The state government was repeatedly receiving complaints against the wide misuse of social media, especially by certain online channels. Even prominent public and cultural figures had made such complaints. They have brought to the notice of the Government instances where inhuman and vile cyber attacks were carried out by some in the guise of journalism and how it even harmed the family lives of many. It has often turned into targeted attacks using untruths and even sleazy content. Many families are bearing the consequences of such attacks," said Kerala CM.

The use of personal likes or dislikes, political or non-political interests and so on to unsettle the peaceful atmosphere of families so as to settle scores arising out of revenge cannot be allowed, the CM further stated.