‘Hindu WhatsApp group’ draws censure, probe on

T'puram: The creation of WhatsApp groups with communal overtones, allegedly linked to IAS officer and industries director K Gopalakrishnan, has drawn widespread censure, with key political figures weighing in on the matter. The police have initiated an investigation.The first group titled Mallu Hindu Officers was reportedly created on Oct 30, sparking disquiet among govt officials. Exacerbating the situation, a second group, Mallu Muslim Officers, materialised two days later, after the issue garnered substantial attention and became a point of discourse among various officers. Many have voiced consternation over the creation of such religiously exclusive groups, viewing it as antithetical to the ethos of public service.When the first group was created, many expressed their protest, and some withdrew. The police indicated that creating a Mallu Muslim Officers group and adding members two days later appear dubious. According to the police, the pertinent query is that if the phone owner's assertions are to be accepted, why would the hackers create another group two days after the first one. Furthermore, if the officer was vigilant, he should have lodged a complaint and taken swift action when the first group was created. Cyber experts in the police also question the claim of phone hacking. "Hacking a phone is not akin to hacking a regular website, particularly with phones that have sophisticated security features. Only by surrendering the handset to the police for examination can a definitive conclusion be reached," an officer from the cyber wing said.Thiruvananthapuram city police have commenced a probe into the matter, following Gopalakrishnan's complaint. "The police have initiated an investigation and also contacted WhatsApp representatives seeking details," city police commissioner G Sparjan Kumar said. However, the officer has not surrendered his phone yet, it is reliably learned.Industries minister P Rajeeve, speaking from Delhi, confirmed that the govt would carry out a comprehensive investigation into the matter. "Divisions based on religion are a grave concern, and we will investigate this under the general conduct rules related to public administration," Rajeeve stated. He underscored the necessity to maintain the integrity of public service, assuring that the issue would be addressed with utmost seriousness.Former health minister K K Shailaja condemned the incident strongly, calling it an "unjustifiable act" that goes against the foundational democratic principles of the country. She remarked, "Officials are expected to serve all people, regardless of caste or religion. The idea of creating a group based on religious lines is entirely wrong."