“Operation Megh Chakra” – Anti-child sexual abuse drive by CBI

Date:

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on September 24, 2022 conducted searches at 59 locations across 20 States and one Union Territory, as part of a pan-India drive against the circulation and sharing of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

Operation Megh Chakra

The operation code-named “Megh Chakra” is being carried out following the inputs received from the Interpol’s Singapore special unit based on the information received from the authorities in New Zealand.

The CBI has registered two cases alleging that a large number of Indian nationals were involved in the online circulation, downloading and transmission of the CSAM using cloud-based storage. Over 50 persons have come under the scanner.

States Involved

The searches were carried out in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Karnataka, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, among others. During the raids, the agency seized the electronic devices, including mobile phones and laptops, belonging to the suspects.

A preliminary scrutiny of the devices using cyber forensic tools allegedly revealed that a huge quantity of child pornography material was stored in them. “The suspects are being questioned to identify the child victims and the abusers,” said an agency official, adding that the operation was one of the CBI-led global operations in recent times for a prompt response to online child sexual exploitation cases with international linkages.

The official said the operation sought to collate information from various law enforcement agencies in India, engage with the relevant law enforcement agencies globally and coordinate closely through the Interpol channels on the issue.

Background

Last November, the agency had launched a similar exercise code-named “Operation Carbon”, in which the suspects in 13 States and one Union Territory were raided. Subsequently, the CBI registered about two dozen cases involving more than 80 people. The previous operation was conducted at 76 locations across the country.

━ related

Shalini Singh Creates History as First Female NCC Cadet to Complete Mountaineering Course

Shalini Singh, an inspiring young woman, has made history by becoming the first female NCC cadet to successfully complete a rigorous mountaineering course. Her achievement not only breaks barriers but also serves as an inspiration for other aspiring women mountaineers, highlighting the spirit of empowerment and determination.

Dubai Emerges as India’s Top Choice for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Dubai has emerged as the preferred destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from India, with a significant increase in investments across various sectors. The strategic location, favorable business environment, and robust infrastructure of Dubai have attracted Indian investors, strengthening the economic ties between the two nations.

India and Vietnam Strengthen Maritime Security Cooperation with 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue in New Delhi

India and Vietnam recently conducted their 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue in New Delhi, reaffirming their commitment to enhance cooperation in ensuring maritime security, combating maritime threats, and promoting a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. The dialogue marks a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties and regional stability.

RBI Launches “100 Days, 100 Pays” Campaign to Settle Unclaimed Deposits, Ensuring Financial Inclusion

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduces the "100 Days, 100 Pays" campaign aimed at resolving unclaimed deposits by facilitating their rightful owners to claim their funds. This initiative promotes financial inclusion and emphasizes the importance of reclaiming dormant deposits for the benefit of individuals and the overall economy.

Celeste Saulo Becomes the First Female Secretary-General of WMO, Paving the Way for Gender Equality in Weather and Climate Organization

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) welcomes Celeste Saulo as its first female Secretary-General, marking a historic milestone for gender representation in the field of meteorology. Saulo's appointment not only highlights the progress towards gender equality but also brings diverse perspectives and expertise to address global weather and climate challenges.