Bengaluru: Chief minister Siddaramaiah Friday issued a strong directive to senior officials across the state to act swiftly and decisively against those spreading fake news. His instructions came on a day when US president Donald Trump announced that both India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire.“Strict action must be taken against those spreading fake news,” Siddaramaiah said during a high-level meeting, calling for heightened vigilance across departments to counter misinformation.Calling for stronger surveillance, Siddaramaiah instructed the officials to monitor both traditional and digital media. “Social media must be closely monitored. Action should be taken against those spreading rumours,” he said. “Regular fact-checking must be conducted. Official clarifications must be issued at the source to counter fake news.”The CM said, “Nothing is more important than the law and order situation; protecting the people must be the top priority.” He asked the officials to submit detailed reports on actions taken against rumour-mongers.In light of India-Pakistan tensions, Siddaramaiah ordered mock drills to be conducted at key locations across all districts and called for comprehensive preparedness guidelines at both the state and district levels. “Preparedness for any situation is a must,” he told the officials.Security has been directed to be tightened at nationally significant locations and along the coastal belt, where constant patrolling has been mandated. He also cautioned against economic exploitation of the situation through illegal stockpiling and black marketing. “Continuous checking on hoarding and black market operations is necessary. Efforts to unduly raise the prices of essential goods must be curbed,” he said.The CM also pushed for bolstering intelligence networks and ensuring 24×7 readiness of fire stations. Relief centres and helplines must be activated in all districts. Civil defence systems are to be strengthened with volunteer recruitment and online registration. All DCs and SPs should take legal action against those misusing the situation to disturb harmony, Siddaramaiah said. The CMO has directed daily media briefings until the situation stabilises.——-BoxShivakumar cancels birthday celebrationsAmid tensions between India and Pakistan, deputy CM DK Shivakumar announced he would not celebrate his 63rd birthday on May 15. In a statement, he urged his supporters, fans, and Congress workers to refrain from any celebrations. “Our soldiers are putting their lives on the line to fight terrorism. It is not appropriate to celebrate my birthday,” he said. He also requested that no banners, flexes, or hoardings be put up in his honour, urging everyone to respect his decision in light of the national security situation.