Detectives from the Cyber Cell of Kolkata Police arrested Garga Chatterjee on charges of allegedly circulating “provocative” and “misleading” content on social media during the 2026 Assembly elections. He was detained late Monday night within the city and formally arrested after prolonged interrogation at Lalbazar headquarters.
According to police sources, Chatterjee had been under surveillance for several months. Investigators claim that multiple posts shared from his social media page, Bangla Pokkho, contained unverified allegations regarding tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), including claims of hacking, vote-counting manipulation, and attempts to influence election outcomes.
The probe was initiated following a written complaint lodged by the Election Commission of India. Acting on the complaint, the Cyber Cell began examining Chatterjee’s digital footprint, including his social media accounts, live broadcasts, and online interactions. Officials allege that the content shared by Chatterjee was intended to create confusion among voters and erode public trust in the electoral process. Several of these posts reportedly went viral during the election period, triggering political controversy and, according to police, contributing to a deterioration in law and order.
“His actions went beyond the scope of free expression. There was a deliberate attempt to inflame public sentiment by spreading false information,” a senior officer at Lalbazar said.
During the arrest, police seized multiple electronic devices, including a mobile phone, a laptop, and external storage units. These have been sent for forensic analysis. Investigators are now examining whether Chatterjee acted independently or was part of a larger, organised network. They are also probing possible links to external entities, including the use of foreign servers to disseminate the content.
Authorities have indicated that central agencies may be roped in if the investigation uncovers broader connections. The arrest has sparked a political debate, with sections of the opposition alleging that it infringes on freedom of expression. However, police have rejected these claims, maintaining that the action was purely legal and based on specific complaints. Addressing the matter, Commissioner of Police Ajay Nand said that the complaint was filed by the District Election Officer (North) regarding Chatterjee’s posts, which allegedly called for protest movements based on claims of EVM manipulation.
“These actions contributed to unrest and public disorder,” he said.
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