Imphal, June 30: Uday Reddy, an Indian-origin professor at the University of Birmingham in the UK, finds himself embroiled in a legal battle following accusations of inciting ethnic tensions in violence-hit Manipur through his online activities. Allegations detailed in a police complaint filed in Imphal suggest that Reddy used his social media platforms to exacerbate religious divisions among communities in the region. The complaint, filed by a local resident, highlights Reddy's purported role in disseminating provocative content that allegedly insulted religious sentiments and fueled animosity between the Meitei community and other groups.

As per an NDTV report, Reddy, a Computer Science professor at the University of Birmingham in the UK, used his social media handles to provoke discord among communities in Manipur deliberately. The First Information Report (FIR) filed against Reddy also suggests potential connections with Khalistani elements in Canada, although these links have not been substantiated with concrete evidence yet. According to the complaint, Reddy conducted audio sessions on social media platforms, allegedly instructing participants in Manipur on tactics to disrupt law enforcement and sow further discord. Fresh Violence in Manipur: Several Houses Set Afire in Jiribam in Fresh Outbreak of Violence.

The FIR further implicates Reddy in activities deemed anti-national under India's Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, citing concerns over potential links to Khalistani elements in Canada and narco-terrorist groups, as reported by NDTV. The complainant has urged authorities to investigate Reddy's call records and financial transactions. Additionally, a lookout circular (LOC) has been requested to monitor Reddy's movements in and out of India, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations. Manipur Violence: Youth Shot Dead by Assailants in Imphal, Bus Carrying CRPF Troopers Emptied and Burnt by Mobs in Kangpokpi (Watch Video).

His account on X (formerly Twitter) has reportedly been restricted in India following a legal demand. This incident unfolds amid a backdrop of heightened tensions in Manipur following ethnic violence between the Meitei community and Kuki tribes since May 2023. The situation has sparked a contentious narrative on social media, highlighting concerns over misinformation and speech that distorts the truth, as recently expressed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 30, 2024 07:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).