Lok Sabha elections: Google removes EVM video after Maharashtra Police notice

Google has removed a video that questioned the integrity of electronic voting machines, or EVMs, after a notice by the Maharashtra Police , a report has said. The ‘fake video’, uploaded to Google Drive, is said to have been circulated using the company’s platforms amid the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

Last week on the day of second phase polling, the cybercrime wing of Maharashtra Police sent a notice to Google under the Information Technology Act and Section 149 of CrPC on the orders of the state chief electoral officer.

“The nodal officer has received an order from the Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra, on behalf of the Election Commission of India , for the removal of an objectionable video questioning the integrity of EVM machines that has been uploaded on Google Drive. This video is being circulated using your platform both during and outside of election periods,” said the notice, as per Moneycontrol.

Maharashtra Police said that these fake videos have potential to mislead people during the elections.

“Such fake videos and misinformation campaigns have the potential to breed mistrust among various stakeholders in the electoral process. They disrupt the level playing field, polarise public opinion, and can lead to social discord. If not addressed promptly, this issue could escalate into a law and order situation in India,” the police said.

Here’s what Google has to say
Google said that it removes flagged content after a proper report with justification.

“We review content reported to us when notified through the correct processes and evaluate based on legitimacy of request and completeness. Where appropriate, we restrict or remove content in keeping with the applicable provisions cited and our policies after a thorough review,” a Google spokesperson told the publication.