Operation Sanskar is a recent effort by the Dungarpur Police in Rajasthan to reduce the glorification of criminal activities by biker gangs especially on social media platforms like Instagram.
Purpose of Operation Sanskar
Operation Sanskar, which means “Operation Values” started in response to a rise in crimes ranging from theft and stalking to highway robbery. Most of these crimes were committed by young men who displayed their illegal activities online. Instagram reels featuring bike stunts, weapon displays, and gang conflicts fueled the popularity and boldness of these gangs. Some youth, as young as 12, began to imitate this behavior.
Execution of Operation Sanskar
- The police monitored social media accounts closely. They took action against individuals making threatening reels under relevant laws.
- those who displayed weapons were charged under the Arms Act, while bikers performing risky stunts faced penalties under the Motor Vehicle Act.
- More than 300 motorbikes were seized between July and August.
- Apology videos featuring arrested gang members, along with funny police reels mocking the gangs, gained millions of views on Instagram. These videos acted as a deterrent and spread a positive message.
Impact of Operation Sanskar
- Since the campaign began, incidents of highway robbery, including stone pelting for thefts, have stopped. Overall crime rates, stalking, and gang fights have decreased.
- Traffic conditions have improved, and women reported feeling safer. Many young men have changed their social media content from criminal glorification to bhajan (devotional) reels, publicly announcing their departure from a life of crime. visit here
” Operation Sanskar serves as an example of using digital media for both enforcement and social change. It encourages public involvement in identifying offenders and promotes a cultural shift away from crime.The campaign showcases proactive policing combined with creative use of social media to build safer communities and help rehabilitate youth at risk of criminal activity ” visit here for state news
