Mayor Ritu Tawde recently dismissed rumours with reference to an alleged ban on fish cutting in Mumbai’s fish markets and assured the Koli community that no such restrictions had been imposed by the BMC. The clarification came as there were rumours about possible restrictions on fish-cutting activities at local markets.
Reports said the mayor took to ‘X’(Twitter) to say she visited the fish market in Vakola, spoke to Kolis and assured them that there are no restrictions on fish cutting in any fish market across Mumbai.
While the much-needed clarification came quickly, it is important that we always check and double-check social media before forwarding as these rumours can spiral into a dangerous situation.
Be sceptical of these reports and check if they are endorsed by officials. Are they just ‘forwards?’ Has anybody actually spoken out in these so-called reports? Has the mayor made a statement? Has she been quoted? Verify before simply talking about it or forwarding and sparking concern and unrest.
This could have easily turned into a tense situation, with an entire community affected and livelihoods on the line. Then, one will have the inevitable interference from those who benefit from divisions and giving communal colour to any event.
In an age of information overload, it is good to use what we have wisely and well, for the correct reasons. Credible reports are helpful and informed individuals make up an empowered society. The message is: do not provoke, alarm or incite. Instead, absorb, weigh, think, and react only after a complete factual check.