In the backdrop of the recent Murshidabad communal unrest, a new trend on social media has come under scrutiny — the use of Ghibli-style cartoon art to spread hateful and violent messages. While these stylized animations generally signify peace and beauty, some netizens allegedly used them for dangerous propaganda.

What’s Being Claimed?

Online users circulated images that appeared as innocent, artistic cartoon representations. But when examined closely, they included religious flags, armed figures, and slogans encouraging violence, particularly referencing historic figures like Gopal Patha, known from the 1946 Calcutta riots.

Some posts went further to romanticize retaliation, promoting the idea of forming “mini militias” and suggesting followers to gather weapons and stones under the guise of defending their community.

Verification & Findings

Multiple independent fact-checkers reviewed the viral content. It was found that:

• Several Ghibli-style images were digitally altered to include violent messages.

• Some accounts intentionally reshared content referencing communal riots and historical figures to emotionally manipulate viewers.

• These images began circulating after protests over the Waqf Act (Amendment) and were tied to the escalation of tensions in the Murshidabad area.

What’s the Reality?

• Not all images in the trend were inciteful, but a specific group of visuals were used to indirectly provoke communal sentiments.

• Many platforms initially failed to flag this content due to its artistic presentation, proving how aesthetic formats can bypass moderation systems.

• Local police have initiated preliminary inquiries into the origin and purpose of such posts.

Conclusion

Yes, it’s true that Ghibli-style cartoon art was manipulated by certain online groups to spread subtle hate messages during the Murshidabad unrest. The misuse of creative formats like animation for communal propaganda is a dangerous digital trend, and viewers should verify content before engaging or resharing.