Part 10/16:
Disinformation fueled by religious sentiments has led to tragic consequences. In No, fabricated content contributed to riots, with false accusations and inflammatory imagery leading to property destruction, injuries, and deaths. Social media platforms, especially WhatsApp, act as vectors for virulent rumors, creating echo chambers that escalate tensions—sometimes with deadly results.
This weaponization of religion is not accidental; it is systematically exploited to maintain political dominance, marginalize minorities, and deepen societal rifts. The online hate campaigns effectively portray Muslims as threats, fueling communal distrust and violence.