Bhatkal, August 10: The Media Watch Committee of Majlise Islah wa Tanzeem conducted a one-day workshop on cybersecurity and cyber laws at Rabita Hall, Bhatkal.

The event aimed at raising awareness among students, social media influencers, group administrators, and community leaders about the evolving digital landscape and the importance of secure online practices.

The workshop commenced with a session by Advocate BT Venkatesh, a distinguished human rights defender and former public prosecutor of Karnataka. In his address, Venkatesh explored the multifaceted role of social media in contemporary society. He described social media as a double-edged sword—while it empowers individuals to voice their opinions and connect with broader audiences, it also exposes them to risks such as misinformation, privacy breaches, and cyberbullying. Venkatesh stressed the importance of responsible social media usage, urging the audience to be discerning about the content they consume and share.

He also highlighted how social media can be a powerful educational tool, enabling students to access a wealth of information and learn new skills.

Dr. Anant Prabhu, a leading cybersecurity expert, followed with an in-depth discussion on the critical aspects of cybersecurity and the legal framework surrounding it.

Dr. Prabhu underscored the growing threat of cybercrimes, noting that as technology advances, so do the methods used by cybercriminals. He elaborated on various forms of cybercrimes, such as phishing, identity theft, and hacking, explaining how these threats can impact individuals and organizations alike.

Dr. Prabhu emphasized the need for constant vigilance and proactive measures to protect personal and sensitive information online. He advised the audience to adopt strong passwords, use two-factor authentication, and stay updated on the latest cybersecurity practices. Additionally, he discussed the legal implications of cybercrimes, detailing the laws in place to combat such offenses and protect victims.

Both resource persons also interacted with the attendees, answering questions and offering personalized advice on how to navigate the digital world safely. They emphasized that while technology offers numerous benefits, it is essential to approach it with a cautious and informed mindset.

The event saw the participation of several notable figures from the community, including Majlise Islah wa Tanzeem President Inayathullah Shabandri, Vice President Ateequr Rahman Muniri, General Secretary Moulana Abdul Raqeeb MJ, and Admin Secretary Jailani Shabandri. The Media Watch Committee's Convener, Aftab Kola, Joint Convener Mubasshir Hallare, and committee member Misbah ul Haq Shaikh were also present. The workshop was further graced by the presence of Yunus Kazia, President of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen and a prominent businessman, as well as Qamar Sada, Vice President of the Indian Overseas Congress and an NRI businessman, among others.

The workshop concluded with an interactive session, where participants engaged in discussions with the experts, seeking guidance on various cybersecurity issues and the ethical use of social media. The event was well-received by the attendees, who appreciated the valuable insights and practical advice provided by the speakers.

Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.



New Delhi (PTI): Dense fog disrupted flight operations at Delhi Airport on Monday, with various airlines cancelling 228 flights and diverting five to nearby airports due to low visibility, an official said.

However, except for Air India, which had in an X post in the morning announced the cancellation of some 40 flights, no other airlines, including crisis-hit IndiGo, shared the numbers of their cancelled or delayed flights.

"As many as 228 flights -- 131 departures and 97 arrivals-- have been cancelled due to low visibility, so far," the airport official said.

In addition to this, five flights have been diverted so far, he said.

Earlier, the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), in a statement, said, "Our on-ground officials are working closely with all stakeholders to assist passengers and provide necessary support across Terminals.

"Low visibility (below minima), due to dense fog, has severely impacted operations at Delhi and other airports across northern India, which is unfortunately beyond our control," IndiGo said in a statement.

As operations are adjusted to prevailing weather conditions, some flights may experience delays, while a few others may be proactively cancelled during the day to prioritise safety and minimise extended waiting at the airport, the airline said in a statement.

IndiGo, however, did not say how many of its flights were cancelled or delayed.

The airline said its teams are "closely monitoring" the situation and coordinating with Delhi airport.

ALSO READ: Messi's Delhi arrival delayed as fog disrupts flight

IndiGo also said it issued advisories to its customers and "proactively" informing them, to minimise inconvenience.

“Poor visibility due to dense fog in Delhi this morning has impacted flight operations for all airlines. We are closely monitoring conditions and will resume operations as soon as it is safe to do so,” Air India said in a post on X in the morning.

It also said that some flights have been cancelled In the interest of safety, and to avoid prolonged uncertainty for the guests, while listing out some 40 arrivals and departures that it had cancelled for the day.

Delhi airport is the country's busiest, handling around 1,300 flight movements daily.