Instagram has refreshed a key part of its visual identity for the first time in a decade, introducing a redesigned version of its wordmark while retaining the familiar gradient camera icon. The Meta-owned platform has made subtle changes to the lettering, describing the updated design as cleaner, sharper and more modern.

The redesign was announced by Instagram chief Adam Mosseri through posts on Instagram and Threads. Rather than replacing the platform's established branding, Instagram has redrawn the existing lettering while retaining the script style that users have associated with the service for years.

Mosseri said the wordmark at the top of the app had remained unchanged for 10 years and that the company believed it was time for a refresh.

A Subtle Branding Change

Unlike a complete logo overhaul, Instagram's latest update focuses mainly on typography.

The company's recognisable gradient camera icon remains in place, meaning users will continue to see the symbol that has represented Instagram since its major redesign in 2016.

The new lettering has been adjusted to give it a more contemporary appearance while preserving elements of the original Instagram identity.

The change may appear relatively small, but even minor modifications can attract considerable attention when they involve a globally recognised brand.

Last Major Redesign in 2016

Instagram's previous major visual change came in 2016, when the company replaced its older brown camera illustration with the colourful gradient icon that is now widely associated with the platform.

The earlier logo had closely reflected Instagram's origins as a photo-sharing service. By 2016, however, the platform had already begun expanding beyond simple photography.

The new gradient design initially faced strong criticism from users who considered it too simplistic. Over time, the redesigned icon became a familiar part of Instagram's identity.

Instagram Has Changed Since Then

A decade after the last major visual overhaul, Instagram is very different from the service it was in 2016.

Video has become one of the platform's central features, while direct messaging, shopping, personalised recommendations and algorithm-driven feeds have significantly changed how users interact with the app.

Instagram has increasingly positioned itself as a broader entertainment and content platform rather than simply a photo-sharing service.

Mosseri has previously highlighted recommendations as a major part of the platform's user experience, reflecting this shift in how content is discovered and consumed.

Users React to New Wordmark

The new wordmark has already generated mixed reactions online.

Some users have welcomed the updated lettering and described it as a cleaner version of the familiar branding. Others have questioned why Instagram needed to change a design that was already well recognised.

One of the recurring jokes surrounding the redesign is that the altered lettering can reportedly look like “Instagzam”when viewed quickly.

The reaction illustrates the challenge faced by major technology companies when making changes to familiar branding. Even a minor adjustment to the shape of individual letters can become noticeable to millions of users.

Icon Remains Unchanged

An important difference between the latest update and Instagram's 2016 redesign is the scale of the change.

Instagram has not replaced its familiar gradient camera icon or introduced a completely new visual identity.

Instead, the company has focused on the wordmark that appears alongside its broader branding.

For users, this means the overall Instagram identity remains largely recognisable despite the refreshed lettering.

Why the Change Matters

The redesign comes as Instagram continues to evolve from a photography-focused social network into a platform built around video, creators, recommendations and messaging.

The updated wordmark may therefore be intended to modernise the brand without disconnecting it from its history.

Whether the new design becomes familiar over time remains to be seen. Instagram's 2016 redesign shows that even controversial branding changes can eventually become accepted once users have had enough time to adjust.

For now, however, the new wordmark has left Instagram users divided, with some praising the cleaner look while others remain unconvinced that the decade-old branding needed to be changed.

A 14-year-old boy accused of carrying out a deadly shooting at a school in Thailand had reportedly learnt how to handle and use firearms through social media, police said as investigators continued to examine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The teenager allegedly killed his grandparents at their home before going to Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, where he opened fire.

Eight people, including the teenager, were killed in the incident, while more than 20 others were injured.

Investigators are now examining the teenager's digital activity, family circumstances and relationships with classmates as they try to determine what led to the shooting.

Police Examine Online Activity

Senior police official Atthapol Anusit said investigators had questioned 17 witnesses as part of the probe.

Police believe the attack may have been planned, although authorities have not yet established a definitive motive.

Investigators examining the teenager's computer reportedly found violent material that he had accessed through social media. Police also believe he used online content to learn about firearms.

Authorities, however, have not found evidence that the teenager underwent formal firearms training or regularly practised shooting at a range.

The investigation is continuing to determine how he acquired the knowledge and access needed to use the weapon.

BB Gun Had Been Confiscated

Police said the teenager had previously brought a BB gun to school, prompting a teacher to confiscate it last year.

The air gun had reportedly been purchased online.

Investigators have since collected the firearm allegedly used in the latest attack, along with spent cartridge cases and other items recovered from the scene.

The teenager's mobile phone and computer are also being examined as police attempt to establish his activities and communications before the shooting.

A knife found inside the bag he carried to school has also been taken as evidence.

Family Background Under Investigation

The teenager had been living with his grandparents since he was about two years old after his parents separated.

According to police, he allegedly used a handgun belonging to his grandfather to shoot his grandparents at their home before travelling to the school.

He then allegedly opened fire on teachers and students before turning the weapon on himself.

Police are examining whether academic pressure, family circumstances, disagreements with friends or exposure to violent material online may have played a role.

Authorities have not confirmed that any one of these factors was responsible for the attack.

Mother Expresses Shock

The teenager's mother told Reuters that she was devastated by what had happened.

She described her son as a bright and cheerful child who appeared to behave normally and said the family had not anticipated such an incident.

The boy's father has also reportedly apologised for his son's actions, according to local media.

A teacher who knew the teenager described him as a good student who performed well academically. Education officials also said he was an avid gamer.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has suggested that the teenager's grandmother, who worked as a teacher, may have been strict with him, although authorities have not established whether this had any connection to the shooting.

Focus Turns to Gun Safety

The attack has renewed concerns about firearm access and school security in Thailand.

Thailand has one of the higher levels of civilian gun ownership in Southeast Asia, and previous shootings have repeatedly prompted debate over tighter controls and safer storage of firearms.

The latest case has also brought renewed attention to the influence of violent online content and the ability of young people to access information about weapons through digital platforms.

The government has said it plans to introduce additional measures aimed at improving firearm safety and strengthening security around schools.

For investigators, the immediate priority remains establishing how the teenager obtained the weapon, what he did online before the attack and whether anyone else was aware of his plans.

The findings could influence the government's response to both firearm access and online exposure among young people following one of Thailand's latest school shooting tragedies.

A bizarre-looking billboard in Hollywood has caught the attention of social media users after a man was seen apparently living inside a small room built nearly 30 feet above the ground.

Videos circulating online show the man sitting, lying down and looking out from the unusual structure as people passing on the road wave at him. At first glance, the setup looks like someone has built a tiny home above a busy street.

However, the unusual sight is not an actual residence. It is part of a planned promotional campaign for the science-fiction thriller film The Last House.

A Living Room Inside Billboard

The unusual setup has been installed near the busy intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Selma Avenue on Hollywood's Sunset Strip.

A small living room has been constructed inside a large roadside billboard. The space reportedly includes a sofa, furniture and other household items, making it look like a compact room suspended above the street.

The setup has attracted the attention of motorists and pedestrians, with several people stopping to watch and record videos of the man inside.

Three-Day Film Promotion

As part of the promotional campaign, a performer has reportedly been staying inside the billboard for three days, from August 6 to August 8.

During the stunt, he can be seen spending time inside the elevated room, relaxing on the sofa and interacting with people below.

The idea appears to have been designed to make passers-by believe they are witnessing someone trapped in an unusual location.

Performer Communicates Through Whiteboard

One of the more unusual elements of the stunt is the way the performer communicates with people on the street.

Instead of speaking directly to people below, he uses a whiteboard to respond to them.

Images and videos from the promotion show messages such as "What's going on?" and "Stuck in here" written on the board.

The interaction has made the installation look more like a scene from a film than a conventional advertising campaign.

'How Long Can You Survive?'

The billboard also carries a question linked to the film's central theme: "How long can you survive?"

The question is intended to draw attention to the storyline of The Last House, which revolves around a family mysteriously becoming trapped inside their own home.

As their food and other supplies begin to run out, the family has to find a way to survive and escape their situation.

The billboard stunt attempts to bring that concept into the real world by placing a person inside a confined living space high above a busy road.

Social Media Users Have Questions

The unusual sight has generated plenty of reactions online.

Some users said they regularly pass through the area and have started waving at the person inside the billboard.

Others praised the creativity of the promotional campaign and said the elevated room looks unusual enough to immediately attract attention.

Some comments, however, focused on more practical questions.

One user jokingly asked whether the room had an air conditioner, while others wondered how the performer would manage basic needs such as using a bathroom during the three-day stay.

Not a Real Home

The viral videos initially left some viewers wondering whether someone had actually built a home inside a billboard.

The reality is quite different. The structure is a temporary promotional installation created for The Last House, rather than a permanent residence.

The campaign uses the film's central idea of confinement and survival to create a real-world spectacle that people can see from the street.

By putting a performer inside a room suspended above one of Hollywood's busy roads, the campaign has managed to generate curiosity among pedestrians, motorists and social media users.

For the film's marketing team, the unusual billboard appears to be serving its intended purpose: getting people to stop, look up and ask what is happening.

The stunt also demonstrates how film promotions are increasingly moving beyond traditional posters and trailers, using real-world experiences to create content that can quickly spread across social media.

A woman auto-rickshaw driver in Gujarat's Vadodara is winning praise online for working late into the night while supporting her family and trying to build financial independence.

A video featuring the woman has gone viral on social media after Instagram user Sanyam Garg reportedly met her and her husband while returning home at around 3 am. What he learned about their lives and the woman's work left him impressed.

The woman reportedly drives her auto late into the night and also offers free rides to people travelling to hospitals during emergencies between 10 pm and 5 am. Details about the service have not been independently verified, but a message displayed on her auto has drawn considerable attention online.

Husband Taught Her to Drive

According to Sanyam Garg's video, the woman's husband used to drive an auto himself before teaching his wife how to operate one.

The idea was not simply to increase the family's income but also to help her become financially independent.

After learning to drive, the woman gradually started working as an auto driver. The couple also has two children, meaning they have to manage both family responsibilities and their work.

Her story has particularly resonated with social media users because of the support she reportedly received from her husband.

Works Late Into the Night

Garg said he encountered the woman at around 3 am, when she was still working.

Despite the late hour, she appeared focused on her work and continued driving passengers to their destinations.

The message displayed on her auto added another dimension to the story. It says that people requiring an auto to reach a hospital between 10 pm and 5 am, particularly in an emergency, can request a free ride.

While the social media post does not provide independently verified details about how many people have used the service or the exact conditions attached to it, the message has attracted significant attention.

Claims She Inspired 50 Women

Garg also claimed in his video that the woman has encouraged around 50 other women to take up auto driving and become financially independent.

There is no independent confirmation of this figure, but if accurate, it would add another significant aspect to her story.

Beyond earning for herself, the woman is reportedly encouraging other women to consider work and financial independence.

Husband Supports Her Independence

The role of the woman's husband has also become a major talking point online.

According to the social media post, he taught her how to drive and supported her decision to start working.

The story has prompted many users to praise the couple for supporting each other rather than allowing social expectations to dictate their choices.

Several commenters described them as a "power couple", while others said family support can play an important role in helping women become financially independent.

Working in Vadodara at Night

Garg also spoke about the environment in Vadodara and said the city's atmosphere gives women confidence to work late.

However, working at night can carry safety risks, and precautions remain important regardless of the city or circumstances.

For the woman featured in the video, continuing to work until the early hours appears to be part of her effort to support her family and build a life on her own terms.

Social Media Users Praise Couple

After the video gained traction online, users praised both the woman and her husband.

Comments included messages such as "This is so inspiring", while several others said they were proud of the couple.

Many users praised the woman's determination and also highlighted the husband's decision to teach and support her.

Some commenters described them as an example for society and wished them success in their efforts.

Dream of Owning a Car

According to Garg, the woman enjoys driving and hopes to eventually buy her own car.

For now, she continues to drive an auto, contribute to her family's income and work towards becoming more financially independent.

What has made the story stand out is its simplicity. There is no large business or extraordinary financial success behind it. Instead, it is the story of a woman working at 3 am, a husband supporting his wife's independence and a message offering help to people who may need an emergency ride to a hospital.

As the video continues to circulate online, the woman's story has become a reminder that financial independence can begin with something as simple as learning a skill, taking up work and having the confidence to keep going.

Social media accounts reportedly linked to Russian military and intelligence networks amplified far-right narratives following the recent migration crisis in Spain's Ceuta enclave, according to an analysis by counter-disinformation group 411.

The analysis found that the posts reached hundreds of thousands of users online and portrayed the mass movement of migrants from Morocco into Ceuta as a deliberately coordinated "assault".

Researchers said the activity highlighted how existing online networks can quickly exploit migration and border crises to spread polarising political narratives across Europe.

Disinformation Surge After Crisis

The analysis examined around 4.5 million social media posts and found that some narratives linked to the Ceuta crisis generated more than 720,000 views within six hours on August 1, according to 411.

The group said the activity began around the time tens of thousands of people attempted to enter Ceuta from Morocco.

Around 72,000 migrants were estimated to have reached the Spanish territory, although the majority were subsequently returned to Morocco.

Researchers said Russia-linked accounts and other far-right networks used the incident to promote claims that the migration movement was a coordinated attack on Spain.

Some posts also accused Spanish authorities of being complicit in the episode and relied on Islamophobic and antisemitic conspiracy theories to support their claims.

Narratives Spread Across Europe

According to the analysis, the messaging was reproduced in seven languages, allowing the narratives to reach audiences beyond Spain.

Saman Nazari, lead researcher at Brussels-based nonprofit Alliance4Europe, said the pattern appeared to be part of a broader phenomenon seen during migration-related crises across Europe.

"We keep seeing this across Europe, and we find it very interesting. It seems like there is some type of machinery in place, or structure," Nazari said.

He added that the repeated appearance of similar narratives following crises made it difficult to dismiss the phenomenon as simple online bandwagoning.

The analysis suggested that the networks involved were more organised than similar operations observed several years ago.

Calls for Far-Right Mobilisation

The report also identified far-right accounts encouraging nationalists to travel to Ceuta and "patrol" businesses and residential areas.

Researchers said some accounts appeared to coordinate their messaging and amplify the same narratives across different platforms.

The development comes amid growing concerns over the role of social media in migration crises.

Online rumours had reportedly contributed to the initial movement of people towards Ceuta, with some young Moroccans allegedly believing that the border had been opened. Social media posts also circulated information about possible routes to the Spanish territory.

According to the analysis, however, the online coordination among migrants appeared largely organic. Much of the activity originated from small and anonymous-looking individual accounts rather than a single identifiable recruitment channel.

Rybar Network Examined

The 411 analysis identified Rybar, a Telegram channel with reported links to Russian intelligence structures, as one source associated with the propaganda campaign.

Rybar's parent company has faced sanctions in Europe.

The analysis said a network of "repeater" accounts subsequently amplified Rybar content. These included accounts associated with the Pravda network, which researchers have described as a system for distributing Kremlin-aligned narratives internationally.

The findings suggest that the importance of such networks may extend beyond any single migration crisis.

Researchers Warn of Repeat Pattern

The researchers said the infrastructure used to amplify narratives during the Ceuta crisis could potentially be activated during future incidents elsewhere in Europe.

The concern is not limited to the specific messages circulated after the migration surge. Instead, analysts are focusing on the existence of established networks capable of rapidly picking up an event, reframing it along ideological lines and distributing the narrative to large audiences.

The 411 analysis said this "machinery" could become particularly significant during future border incidents in the Mediterranean.

Social Media’s Growing Role

The Ceuta crisis has demonstrated how quickly events at physical borders can spill into the digital information space.

Migration, national security and border control are already highly polarising issues across Europe. False or misleading claims can therefore spread rapidly, particularly when they are packaged around emotionally charged events.

While the 411 findings point to alleged coordination by Russia-linked networks, the analysis also indicates that multiple independent actors participated in spreading narratives around the crisis.

For European authorities and social media platforms, the episode highlights the continuing challenge of distinguishing organic public reaction from coordinated influence operations during fast-moving crises.

The findings also underline how existing online networks can remain active long after an individual crisis has ended, potentially ready to amplify similar narratives when another migration or border incident occurs.

The Central Government has conveyed a strong message to Meta that digital platforms operating in India must comply with Indian laws and cannot function based on American legal standards, following the controversy over the temporary restriction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video on Facebook.

According to government sources, the issue prompted the Centre to seek an explanation from Meta, summon its senior executives and demand an apology after the Prime Minister's video was briefly restricted on the platform.

The matter has become a key point of discussion between the government and Meta as India steps up scrutiny of content moderation practices followed by global technology companies.

Centre's Clear Message

Sources told CNN-News18 that the government's actions were intended to reinforce that social media companies operating in India are bound by the country's legal framework.

"Platforms cannot be run in India as per US law. Every platform has a responsibility towards Indian society and must function according to Indian laws," sources said.

Officials maintained that digital intermediaries, like all other institutions operating in the country, are expected to comply with domestic regulations.

Meta Executives Meet Government

Meta's senior leadership, including Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan, is currently in India to hold discussions with government officials following the controversy.

The Centre reportedly questioned the company on how its content moderation systems flagged the Prime Minister's video and sought details of the safeguards that would be introduced to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also apologised over the incident, while the company attributed the temporary restriction to an unintended technical error.

The video, which was shared by Prime Minister Modi during protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has since been restored and is currently available on Facebook.

More Meetings Planned

Government sources said three to four additional meetings with Meta representatives are expected in the coming days.

Apart from the Facebook controversy, the discussions are likely to cover issues related to WhatsApp and other Meta-owned platforms. Officials are also expected to examine the company's compliance with India's regulatory expectations.

Focus on Child Safety and AI Content

The meetings have also included discussions on child sexual abuse material (CSAM), AI-generated deepfakes and broader concerns surrounding content moderation across Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

The government has reportedly sought details of Meta's mechanisms to detect illegal content, prevent misuse of artificial intelligence and strengthen safeguards for verified public figures.

Broader Regulatory Oversight

Sources added that the government remains in regular contact with other major digital platforms, including X and Telegram, on issues related to online safety, platform accountability and compliance with Indian laws.

The latest developments come amid increasing regulatory scrutiny of global technology companies as India pushes for greater transparency, stronger content moderation practices and adherence to domestic legal requirements.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged greater engagement with India's younger generation, saying members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha should not be labelled "anti-national" for expressing their concerns. Addressing a youth interaction in Mumbai, Bhagwat said dialogue, trust and understanding were essential to bridge the gap between institutions and young people.

Speaking at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) on Thursday, the RSS chief described the country's youth as patriotic and honest, stressing that they represent India's future and deserve to be heard rather than alienated.

'They Are Our Own People'

Responding to a question on youth-led protests, Bhagwat rejected the notion that the younger generation should be viewed with suspicion.

"Anti-national to hai nahin, apne log hain. Apni next generation hai (They are not anti-national. They are our own people. They are our next generation)," he said.

He emphasised that disagreements should be resolved through communication instead of confrontation, arguing that sustained interaction helps both sides understand each other's concerns.

Dialogue Over Confrontation

Bhagwat said meaningful relationships between institutions and young citizens must precede constructive dialogue.

"I have spoken about dialogue before. There has to be a relationship first. When that relationship exists, there is dialogue. We understand their concerns and they understand ours. That is what should happen," he said.

According to him, engaging with young people is more productive than branding them or dismissing their views, particularly at a time when the country is witnessing increased participation by youth in public debates.

Gen Z More Honest, Patriotic: Bhagwat

The RSS chief also challenged the perception that younger generations are less responsible than their predecessors.

He said Gen Z and Gen Alpha possess a stronger sense of honesty, patriotism and public service.

"I believe this new generation — Gen Z and Gen Alpha — is more honest than our existing generation. It has a stronger feeling of patriotism and service," Bhagwat said.

His remarks highlighted the need to recognise the aspirations of young Indians instead of questioning their commitment to the nation.

Cautions Against Social Media Misinformation

Bhagwat also spoke about the growing influence of social media, saying regulation alone cannot solve the challenges posed by digital platforms.

He said laws become effective only when society voluntarily accepts and follows them, adding that users should exercise self-discipline while consuming and sharing online content.

Warning about the spread of misinformation, Bhagwat noted that artificial intelligence and modern technology now make it possible to create convincing fake videos and attribute false statements to public figures.

He advised people not to trust content without verification from authentic sources and said self-regulation was essential to prevent misinformation from spreading.

According to Bhagwat, outright bans often push content into illegal channels rather than resolving the underlying problem.

Remarks Come Amid Student Protests

Bhagwat's comments come against the backdrop of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, which later expanded into a broader movement demanding reforms in India's examination system and greater accountability in education governance.

The protests eventually intensified political pressure, leading to the resignation of the then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

While Bhagwat did not directly comment on the ongoing controversy, his appeal for dialogue with young protesters was seen as a call for greater engagement between policymakers and the country's youth.

A court in the US state of New Mexico has imposed a $942 million (around ₹9,030 crore) penalty on Meta Platforms, ruling that the company's social media platforms contributed to harm affecting young users' mental health.

As part of the judgment, the court directed that $420 million (approximately ₹3,993 crore) be allocated towards treatment programmes for affected children and teenagers. The remaining amount will be spent over the next five years on awareness campaigns, prevention initiatives and mental health screening services.

The ruling follows a lengthy legal battle over allegations that Meta failed to adequately protect minors using its platforms.

Case Decided in Two Phases

The proceedings were conducted in two stages.

In the first phase, the court imposed a $375 million civil penalty after finding that the company was aware of child sexual exploitation concerns on its platforms but failed to take adequate action.

During the second phase, the court ordered an additional $567 million in penalties, bringing the total financial liability to $942 million.

Court Examined Child Safety Concerns

During the trial, prosecutors urged the court to require significant changes to Meta's platforms, including limiting addictive design features, strengthening age-verification systems, improving default privacy settings and enhancing safeguards against child sexual exploitation.

The case centred on allegations that Meta's platforms exposed children to harmful content while insufficiently addressing known safety risks.

Meta Plans to Challenge the Decision

Meta has said it disagrees with the ruling and intends to appeal.

The company argued that it continues to invest heavily in online safety technologies and content moderation but maintained that preventing every instance of harmful activity by bad actors remains a complex challenge.

Legal experts say the appeal process could determine whether Meta will also be required to introduce structural changes to its algorithms and child safety policies beyond the financial penalty.

Broader Regulatory Pressure May Follow

The judgment could increase regulatory scrutiny of Meta across the United States.

Reports indicate that attorneys general from more than 40 states are also pursuing legal action related to child safety and youth protection, potentially exposing the company to additional legal and regulatory challenges.

Attorney General Led the Lawsuit

The lawsuit was filed by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, who alleged that Meta knowingly failed to make Instagram and Facebook sufficiently safe for children.

The complaint argued that the company's algorithms were designed in ways that encouraged prolonged engagement among younger users, contributing to mental health concerns such as depression, eating disorders and suicidal behaviour.

The lawsuit also alleged that Meta failed to adequately address the misuse of its platforms for child sexual exploitation despite being aware of the risks.

Court Notes Limits of Federal Privacy Law

While examining proposed remedies, the court observed that the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)limits the extent to which companies can be compelled to collect additional personal data from children for age verification.

The court noted that mandatory age-verification measures involving children's personal information could raise privacy concerns under existing federal law, making such remedies legally complicated.

The judgment primarily focused on financial penalties and funding for youth mental health initiatives, while further proceedings may determine whether additional platform reforms will be required.

Tension flared in Chhattisgarh's capital on Wednesday after members of the Bajrang Dal staged a protest over an alleged objectionable social media post targeting Goddess Sita and Hindu saints. The organisation demanded strict legal action against the person behind the post, prompting police to register an FIR and initiate an investigation.

The protest took place at the Civil Lines police station, where Bajrang Dal activists raised slogans and submitted a memorandum seeking immediate action against the accused.

Protest Over Alleged Offensive Post

According to Bajrang Dal leaders, an Instagram account identified as "_wasim_ahmed_1" allegedly shared content containing objectionable remarks about Goddess Sita and Hindu religious figures. The organisation claimed that the account belongs to a resident of the Raja Talab area in Raipur.

Police, however, said they are yet to verify whether the account is actually operated by the individual named in the complaint.

Activists alleged that the post hurt the religious sentiments of the Hindu community and demanded that criminal proceedings be initiated without delay.

Police Register FIR

Following the complaint, Civil Lines police registered a case and launched an investigation into the matter.

Officials said digital evidence, including the Instagram account, the disputed post and related online activity, is being examined to establish the identity of the account holder and determine whether any offences under relevant provisions of law have been committed.

Police have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the social media account or the allegations against the person named by the complainants.

Warning of Larger Agitation

During the protest, Bajrang Dal workers warned that if prompt action was not taken, the organisation would intensify its agitation.

Chhattisgarh Bajrang Dal state co-convenor Vijendra Verma alleged that repeated attempts were being made to target Hindu beliefs through social media platforms. He urged authorities to take strict legal action against those responsible.

The organisation has also sought a detailed investigation into the origin of the post and the identity of the person operating the account.

Investigation Underway

Police said the case remains under investigation and that technical verification of the digital evidence is in progress. Authorities will examine the social media account, its activity, and other electronic records before taking further legal action.

Officials have appealed to the public not to circulate unverified content related to the case while the investigation is ongoing.

The incident comes amid growing scrutiny of objectionable content shared on social media platforms and renewed calls for stronger action against posts that allegedly incite communal or religious tensions.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been blocked in India, alleging that social media platform Meta was restricting accounts of people raising questions over the Centre's ethanol policy and paper leak issues.

In a post on X, Kejriwal said Meta had failed to provide any clear explanation despite repeated attempts to seek clarification. He also urged users facing similar restrictions to contact him.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

Kejriwal alleged that the Central Government was pressuring Meta to block the accounts of individuals speaking against the ethanol blending policy and recent examination paper leak controversies.

He appealed to Meta not to succumb to what he described as government pressure and urged the company to operate independently.

The AAP leader also shared a screenshot from his Instagram account status page, which displayed the message "Unavailable in some locations."

Claims Meta Confirmed Restriction

According to Kejriwal, after approaching Meta's India office, he was informed that his Instagram account had been restricted and was currently unavailable for users in India.

He criticised the platform for not offering any detailed explanation regarding the action, describing the company's response as inadequate.

As of Thursday, Meta had not issued an official public statement regarding Kejriwal's claims or clarified the reason behind the reported restriction.

Users Report Similar Issues

Kejriwal said several social media users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had also become inaccessible.

He invited affected users to reach out so that the issue could be documented collectively, suggesting that the reported restrictions were not isolated incidents.

Row Comes Amid Meta-Government Dispute

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Meta in India following the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook video related to examination reforms and paper leaks.

The video, posted on July 23, briefly became unavailable before being restored by Meta.

The incident prompted the government to seek an explanation from the company, with parliamentary leaders questioning the platform's content moderation practices.

Government Engages Meta

According to government sources cited by PTI, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the Indian government on Wednesday over the temporary removal of the Prime Minister's video.

The company also reportedly acknowledged concerns relating to content moderation, deepfake content and child sexual abuse material on its platforms during discussions with government officials.

The controversy has intensified the ongoing debate over the role of social media platforms, intermediary responsibilities and content regulation in India.

No Official Response Yet

While Kejriwal has publicly alleged that his account has been restricted in India, Meta has not officially confirmed whether any action has been taken against his Instagram profile or the reasons behind it.

The matter is expected to draw further political attention as debates over platform accountability, digital regulation and freedom of expression continue.

New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been restricted for users in India. He said he has repeatedly sought clarification from Meta, but has not received any official explanation so far.

Kejriwal also alleged that several other users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had faced similar restrictions. He appealed to affected users to get in touch with him and share their experiences.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

In a post on social media platform X, Kejriwal claimed that the government was pressuring Meta to restrict the accounts of people speaking about issues such as the ethanol policy and the paper leak controversy.

He alleged that social media platforms should operate independently and should not come under political influence. According to him, Meta should provide a transparent explanation if any action has been taken against his account.

Screenshot Shared on Social Media

To support his claim, Kejriwal shared a screenshot of his Instagram account status. The screenshot displayed the message "Unavailable in Some Locations," which, according to him, indicates that his account is not accessible in certain regions, including India.

He said officials at Meta's India office informed him that his account was unavailable in the country, but he added that the company had not provided any formal clarification regarding the reason behind the restriction.

Meta Yet to Respond

As of now, Meta has not issued any official statement regarding Kejriwal's claim or the alleged restriction on his Instagram account.

The company has also not commented on the allegations that accounts discussing specific public issues are being selectively limited.

What Does "Unavailable in Some Locations" Mean?

According to Instagram's account status system, the message "Unavailable in Some Locations" generally indicates that certain content—or, in some cases, an account—may not be visible in specific countries or regions because of local legal requirements or platform policies.

It does not necessarily mean that the account has been suspended or permanently removed. In many cases, the account continues to remain active and accessible in other parts of the world, while access is restricted only in selected locations.

Issue Sparks Fresh Debate

Kejriwal's claim has triggered a fresh discussion on the role of social media platforms in content moderation and regional access restrictions. While the AAP leader has questioned the alleged restriction and sought an explanation from Meta, the company's official position on the matter is still awaited.

Meta has come under fresh political and regulatory scrutiny in India after a Parliamentary Standing Committee reportedly sought an unconditional apology from the company's Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg over the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video from Facebook.

According to reports, the committee has warned that Meta could face consequences regarding its intermediary protections if it fails to respond satisfactorily to the issue.

The controversy stems from the temporary unavailability of a video featuring Prime Minister Modi addressing students and Gen Z audiences on examination-related issues and paper leaks. The video reportedly remained inaccessible on Facebook for nearly five to six hours before being restored.

Panel Demands Unconditional Apology

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology has reportedly written to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), expressing concern over the removal of the Prime Minister's video.

Committee Chairman Nishikant Dubey stated that Meta should issue an "unqualified apology" within three days. He argued that deleting the Prime Minister's video reflected the actions of a publisher rather than an intermediary platform.

Dubey also urged the government to consider withdrawing Meta's intermediary or "safe harbour" protection if the company failed to apologise within the stipulated period.

Questions Raised Over Safe Harbour Protection

The committee's remarks have once again brought attention to the legal protections available to digital platforms under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act.

Safe harbour protection shields intermediaries such as Meta, Google, YouTube, X, Amazon and other digital platforms from liability for content posted by users, provided they comply with legal obligations and remove unlawful content when directed by authorities.

According to Dubey, platforms should not misuse these protections while allegedly allowing objectionable or harmful content to circulate.

Meta Officials Meet Government

Amid the controversy, a Meta delegation led by Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan reportedly met MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan in New Delhi.

The discussions focused on the temporary removal of the Prime Minister's video and the government's concerns regarding the incident. No official statement detailing the outcome of the meeting has been released so far.

Police Investigation Underway

The matter has also reached law enforcement agencies.

Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have reportedly registered two FIRs based on complaints filed by BJP workers regarding AI-generated and allegedly morphed videos circulating on social media.

Meta India Head Arun Srinivas has reportedly been named as a co-accused in the cases along with several social media account handlers.

Investigators are examining those allegedly responsible for creating and uploading the manipulated content, while also reviewing Meta's moderation systems and safeguards designed to prevent the spread of fake or misleading material.

Global Meta Team May Be Questioned

According to reports, Meta's global team is expected to visit Delhi next week for discussions with Indian authorities.

Officials are likely to seek explanations regarding the functioning of Meta's recommendation algorithms, content moderation practices, and the company's role in addressing misinformation and maintaining public order on its platforms.

The reported visit comes as regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies continues to increase in India over issues related to content moderation, platform accountability and intermediary responsibilities.

Broader Debate Over Platform Accountability

The latest controversy has renewed the debate over the responsibilities of social media companies operating in India.

While digital platforms maintain that they function as intermediaries hosting user-generated content, policymakers continue to examine whether certain content moderation decisions place them in the role of publishers, potentially affecting the legal protections available under Indian law.

The developments are expected to remain under close watch as authorities continue their investigation and await Meta's response.