Why Is Chennai Police Targeting LGBTQ+ Dating App Grindr For A Ban? News24 –

The request for a ban on the Grindr application has been made by the Greater Chennai Police (GCP) to stop the communication of methamphetamine drugs, according to The New Indian Express.The application was being used to procure methamphetamine, but the ban would also impact the users who access Grindr to connect with each other.

LGBTQ+ Community Raises Concerns Over Stereotyping

The LGBTQ+ community perceives this development will reinforce drug abuse stereotypes toward their community which will actualize discrimination against them. According to an activist who assists the community there is no justification for police to ban mobile phones only because scam calls are increasing.

Call For Inclusive Awareness Instead Of Banning

When raising awareness about this issue Chennai police should involve members of the LGBTQ+ community instead of banning the app. An official explained there exists a chance that peddlers might move their drug trades to different applications.

Lack Of Evidence From Alternative Platforms

The police department has not found any documented proof about drug distribution happening through alternative applications during their criminal investigations. A senior police official discussed the case which began when the Tamil Nadu DGP’s office sent details to CERT at MeITY.

Official Request Cites Public Order And Nuisance

The communication asks for Grindr App prohibition due to its effects on public order together with its nuisance capabilities. Users have submitted complaints to officers about Grindr-related extortion activities together with blackmailing practices while expressing concerns about user location exposure through the app platform.

Unclear Data Linking Grindr To Drug Trafficking

The police have failed to establish numbers regarding Grindr users and their drug trafficking activities on their platform. The authorities noted that heterosexual dating applications also faced misuse during which users conducted extortion schemes and other criminal activities. Since August the police have filed at least 21 reports demonstrating how Grindr enabled methamphetamine trafficking but a senior official has provided this data.

Anti Narcotics Intelligence Unit Traces Activity On App

A new ANIU (Anti Narcotics Intelligence Unit) of the Chennai Police started its anti-synthetic drug operation in August. Officials demonstrated the existence of tangible evidence showing that people use the application to perform meth transactions. Two police constables were among the individuals who used the application to engage in illegal drug sales. The investigators discovered that meth peddlers use symbols within their profile to maintain privacy about their identity.