What happens if you post a photo of yourself brandishing a gun on social media? What kind of punishment will you receive?
Flashing Firearms On Social Media: Posting photos with guns or weapons on social media will now be considered a crime. The police can take action in such cases under the Arms Act and sections of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita).
Gun-Waving Post On Social Media: The trend of showing off on social media has increased rapidly. Taking photos with pistols, guns, or sharp weapons and posting them on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp will no longer be considered just a style statement. The police and ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) have started keeping a close watch on such content. This is being done to curb the fear, threats, and criminal image being spread through social media.
In recent times, it has been observed that criminals and gang members are creating fear among the general public by posting photos and videos with weapons. To prevent this, digital surveillance has been increased, and preparations are being made for direct legal action against those who post such content. The question now is, what will the law do if someone posts a photo of themselves brandishing a gun, and what kind of punishment can they receive? Here's what you need to know:
Action will be taken for brandishing a gun on social media
The police believe that social media is becoming a new weapon for criminals. People involved in illegal liquor, mining mafia, drug trafficking, and other illegal businesses show off their power by posting photos with weapons. This directly affects the mental security of ordinary people. It creates an atmosphere of fear and weakens respect for the law.
This is why the police have intensified social media monitoring. Digital data is being collected, including posts, locations, and networks. The police want to ensure that no one uses social media to spread threats, incitement, or terror.
What is the punishment for a gun-related post?
If a person uploads their photo or video with a weapon on social media, action can be taken against them under Section 5/27 or 7/27 of the Arms Act. These sections provide for imprisonment and fines for possessing and displaying illegal weapons. However, the matter becomes more serious if the post instills fear in the general public or threatens someone.
In such a situation, Section 353(2) of the BNS, along with Section 318 of the BNS, can be applied. This means that simply posting a photo can be considered a criminal act. The punishment will depend on the severity of the crime and may include imprisonment, a fine, or both.
