While authorities have suggested that the objective behind the move is to come up with ‘instant counters’ that can plug resentment triggered by news items—thereby ensuring that personal opinions do not snowball into public protests and threaten law and order—to us, it sounds like a thinly-veiled threat. Judging by the various reactions—most of them violent—that have come about as a result of the JNU protest, what exactly comprises 'possible intervention' is a question that will frighten dissenting voices across the country. The message seems clear: Big Brother is watching. And, dare we say it, fascism is nigh.

Words: Krupa Joseph