Published Jun 25, 2026 | 9:24 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 25, 2026 | 9:24 PM
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge. (X/priyankkharge)
Synopsis: Emphasising that consent to record is not consent to share, the Home Minister explained, “The order clarifies that consent to capture or record an image/video does not amount to consent for its dissemination. Any sharing, publishing, forwarding or transmission of such material without consent is a distinct cognizable offence, even if the material was originally recorded with consent.”
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Thursday, 25 June, took to X, to announce that department of Home has been directed to make FIRs mandatory in cases of revenge pornography, sextortion and blackmail videos.
“Karnataka Police Department has issued Standing Order directing all police officers across the State to take strict and immediate action in cases involving the non-consensual publication, transmission or sharing of intimate/private images and videos,” he said.
Emphasising that consent to record is not consent to share, the Home Minister explained, “The order clarifies that consent to capture or record an image/video does not amount to consent for its dissemination. Any sharing, publishing, forwarding or transmission of such material without consent is a distinct cognizable offence, even if the material was originally recorded with consent.”
“Police officers have been directed to mandatorily register FIRs in complaints involving non-consensual dissemination of intimate content, including cases commonly referred to as revenge pornography, sextortion and blackmail videos. FIRs must be registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the Information Technology Act, 2000, including Section 77 of BNS where applicable, and Sections 66E, 67 and 67A of the IT Act,” Priyank Kharge added.
“The Standing Order also mandates that police must not refuse or delay registration of complaints on the ground that the victim had earlier consented to recording. In cases involving threats, extortion, sexual favours or other coercive demands, additional provisions relating to extortion and criminal intimidation must also be invoked.”
Also Read: Priyank Kharge pushes RSS to a “Kagaz Nahi Dikhayenge” moment and he won’t stop there
Speaking of the challenges that might arise, Priyank Kharge said, “When jurisdiction is an issue, police stations must register a Zero-FIR and transfer it to the appropriate police station without delay.”
He further added, “Officers have also been instructed to take prompt steps for removal or blocking of offending content, preserve electronic evidence, and coordinate with Cyber Crime Police Stations and the CID Cyber Division for technical investigation.”
The order further stresses that victims must be treated with dignity and sensitivity. Their identity must be kept confidential, victim-shaming must be avoided, and wherever feasible, complaints of women victims should be recorded by women officers.
“Any failure or delay in registering an FIR on the erroneous ground of “prior consent” will be viewed seriously and may attract departmental action against the concerned officer. This direction reinforces the constitutional right to privacy and ensures a uniform, victim-sensitive and legally sound response across all police stations in Karnataka.”
