Can Salem police book me for spreading rumours during elections under Tamil Nadu law?

Spreading rumours during elections in Salem can attract prosecution under the Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 alongside the Representation of the People Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The Madras High Court has directed Salem police to act against deliberate rumour-mongering that disrupts electoral process. The Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 may empower the district magistrate to issue prohibitory orders and order content takedown in Salem. The Madras High Court has cautioned that action must not stifle legitimate political speech in Salem. Complaints can be lodged with the Salem election officer and cyber crime cell. The Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 provides for awareness campaigns to counter election rumours in Salem. False FIRs for political rumour-mongering can be challenged before the Madras High Court.