Operation Sindoor: Beware of Viral Fake Narratives on Social Media; Official Clarifications to Set the Record Straight
In a time of heightened tensions, misinformation and fake news can cause panic and confusion. Several misleading and false claims are being circulated by dubious social media handles, many traced back to Pakistani sources, aiming to create fear and spread propaganda related to the Indian Armed Forces during the ongoing Operation Sindoor.
The Press Information Bureau’s fact-checking unit, #PIBFactCheck, has stepped in to clarify the truth behind these viral claims. In addition, PuneNow has compiled a roundup of recent fake narratives being widely circulated on social media, aiming to set the record straight and ensure that our readers are informed with verified, fact-checked information.
1. Old Video of Fighter Jet Crash Misrepresented
One widely shared video claims that Pakistan has recently shot down an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter plane. This video, however, has been misrepresented.
✔️ Fact Check: The video is from February 2025, depicting the crash of an IAF Mirage 2000 aircraft near Shivpuri, Gwalior, during a routine training mission. It has no connection to any combat operations or recent events.
2. Fake DRDO Letter on BrahMos Missile Alleging Component Failure
A letter falsely attributed to a scientist named AS Kumar from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is being shared online, alleging a failure in BrahMos missile components.
❌ Fact Check: The letter is entirely fake.
✔️ DRDO has not issued any such communication.
✔️ There is no scientist named AS Kumar at the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE).
3. Misuse of Old Aircraft Crash Images
Several pro-Pakistan social media handles are recirculating old images of crashed Indian aircraft to falsely claim recent IAF losses during Operation Sindoor.
- 🛑 Claim: An Indian Rafale jet was shot down near Bahawalpur.
✔️ Fact Check: The image is from 2021, showing a MiG-21 crash in Moga, Punjab.
- 🛑 Claim: A new crash of an IAF jet.
✔️ Fact Check: The image used is from a MiG-29 crash in Barmer, Rajasthan, in September 2024.
These images are being circulated to fuel anti-India propaganda and distort the current situation.
4. False Claim About Indian Brigade Headquarters Destroyed
Another baseless rumor making the rounds online alleges that Pakistan has destroyed an Indian Brigade Headquarters.
❌ Fact Check: This claim is entirely false. There is no such incident reported by any credible or official source.
Official Advice: Stay Vigilant, Trust Verified Sources
The Government of India and PIB Fact Check urge citizens and media personnel to stay away from rumors and only rely on official updates. Sharing unverified information during sensitive times can endanger national morale and mislead the public.
