In an era where information travels faster than verification, the month of March 2026 witnessed a concentrated wave of disinformation targeting Bharat’s institutions, leadership, and global standing. Foreign media portals, anonymous digital networks, and coordinated influencer ecosystems amplified misleading narratives, often leveraging artificial intelligence, edited visuals, and fabricated documents to distort reality. What emerges is not a series of isolated incidents, but a pattern-systematic, persistent, and strategically aligned with geopolitical fault lines.
A closer examination reveals that these narratives were not random. They consistently targeted sensitive domains: national security, defence operations, diplomatic relations, economic stability, and social cohesion. From falsely attributing statements to top leadership to manufacturing incidents involving the Indian Armed Forces, these campaigns aimed to erode credibility, provoke distrust, and shape international perception. The use of AI-generated videos, deepfakes, and recycled visuals marks a significant evolution in the scale and sophistication of such propaganda.
What stands out is the geographical spread of these sources-ranging from Pakistan and West Asia to Europe, the United States, and beyond-indicating a transnational dimension of disinformation. Many of these narratives attempted to exploit ongoing global tensions, particularly the Israel–Iran conflict, to falsely implicate India or project it as an active participant in unrelated geopolitical developments. Simultaneously, domestic fault lines such as Manipur unrest or communal sensitivities were repeatedly targeted through fabricated claims.
The implications are serious. Disinformation at this scale does not merely mislead; it seeks to influence public opinion, destabilise internal harmony, and challenge institutional trust. The repeated targeting of India’s defence forces, political leadership, and economic resilience points toward a broader attempt to construct a narrative of instability and vulnerability-one that does not align with ground realities.
Here are 40 such incidents:
1. Digitally Manipulated Video Falsely Attributes Statement to Home Minister Amit Shah
A claim circulated on social media falsely alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated in Parliament that Pakistan was supposed to be part of India.
The claim originated from a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Whistle Blower (@InsiderWB), which shared a video of Amit Shah and asserted that he had made the statement during a parliamentary session. The account wrote that Amit Shah had said in the Indian Parliament, “Whatever India had done or not done did not matter because Pakistan was supposed to be a part of India. If Pakistan got successful in mediation, it was ultimately a win for India.”
The content was categorised as political disinformation involving misattributed quotes and statements generated through artificial means.
A fact check of the video found that it had been digitally manipulated, and no credible news report verified the claim. In the original footage, Amit Shah did not make any such statement. He was responding to a discussion on freeing the country from Left Wing Extremism under Rule 193 in the Lok Sabha.
2. False Claim Circulates Alleging Targeted Killing of Retired Brigadier K. Joshi
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Retired Brigadier K. Joshi had been targeted and killed by “unknown men.”
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Zard si Gana (@ZardSi), which stated that a retired Indian Army Brigadier had been shot dead by “unknown men,” possibly described as “freedom fighters,” in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The account further claimed that he had been a pro-Israel supporter and was reportedly involved in sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan.
The content was categorized as a misleading claim against the military under defence and security-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless and presented with a false angle. In reality, Retired Brigadier K. Joshi lost his life after being struck by a stray bullet during a road rage shootout between two groups in Dehradun on March 30, 2026. He had no involvement in the incident and was identified as an unintended victim.
3. False Claim Alleges Retired Brigadier V.K. Joshi Killed by Manipur Militants
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Retired Brigadier V.K. Joshi was killed by militants from Manipur for alleged crimes against local people.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Zard si Gana (@ZardSi), which stated that “Manipur freedom fighters” had killed the retired Indian Army Brigadier. The account further alleged that he was a pro-Israeli supporter and had been involved in multiple crimes against locals in Manipur.
The content was categorised as a misleading claim against the military under defence and security-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the claim was false and shared in a misleading context. Retired Brigadier V.K. Joshi was struck by a stray bullet during a road rage shooting between two groups while he was on a morning walk in Dehradun on March 30, 2026.
There were no credible or verified reports linking his death to Manipur insurgents or to any political or ideological motive.
4. False Claims Circulate Alleging Indian Navy Missile Strike on Iranian Vessel
False claims circulated on social media alleged that the Indian Navy had launched a missile strike on an Iranian naval vessel near Indian waters, resulting in the destruction of the ship.
The claims were shared by Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) accounts Anushi Tiwari (Proud Indian) (@Proudindiannavi) and Annushi Tiwari (@Annushicong), which posted a video asserting that such an incident had taken place.
The content was categorised as a fake claim of conflict under defence and security-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the claims were entirely baseless, with no verified or credible sources supporting the alleged incident. The visuals being circulated were outdated and had been available online since at least March 4, 2026.
The incident also involved the circulation of false claims about the Indian Navy by propagandist accounts, aimed at setting a narrative against India in the context of ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
5. False Claim Circulates Alleging India Has Only Two Days of Petrol Supply
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that India had only two days’ worth of petrol remaining.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Anushi Tiwari (Proud Indian) (@Proudindiannavi), which stated that India’s Petroleum Ministry had officially announced that the country had only two days’ worth of petrol left, with oil shipments expected to take up to eight days to arrive. The account further alleged that the Modi government had put the lives of 1.5 billion people in difficulty.
The content was categorised under social welfare and public services-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the claims were completely baseless and fabricated, with no support from any verified or reliable sources. The government and oil companies stated that there was no shortage of petrol or diesel and advised people against panic buying.
The government further stated that despite concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz, India continued to receive crude oil from more than 40 global suppliers. It was also stated that increased availability from other regions had compensated for any disruptions, while refineries across the country were operating at more than 100 percent capacity, maintaining a stable flow of fuel.
6. False Claims Circulate Alleging Violence by Indian Army and Assam Rifles in Manipur
False claims circulated on social media alleged that personnel of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles had carried out violence against civilians in Manipur.
The claims were shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Manipur Post (@ManipurPost5), which alleged that Indian Army and Assam Rifles personnel had entered Litan, Manipur, burned homes, opened fire on residents, and carried out assaults, including sexual violence. The account stated that the forces had entered the area in groups during the night, burned local houses, opened fire on civilians, and assaulted people, including women, girls, and children. It further claimed that similar actions had been carried out against Kashmiris, Khalistanis, Nagas, Assamese, and others.
The content was categorised as a misleading claim against the military under defence and security-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the allegations were entirely baseless and fabricated, with no verified or credible sources supporting the claims and no evidence from official reports or reliable media to substantiate them. In reality, armed miscreants had continued to spread chaos a day after Yumnam Khemchand had confirmed their presence in the hills.
The incident also involved the circulation of false and fabricated claims about the Indian Armed Forces by propaganda accounts to set a narrative against India.
7. Fake Document Falsely Claims Manipur Residents Congratulated Pakistan on National Day
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that the people of Manipur had congratulated Pakistan on March 23, its national day.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Manipur Post (@ManipurPost5), which posted a document purported to be a press release from the Joint Action Committee Manipur (JACM). The document stated, “On this special and proud occasion, we extended our heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan. Their journey continued to inspire, and their achievements remained a testament to unity, perseverance, and national pride.”
A fact check found that the claim was entirely baseless, with no credible news outlet or verified report substantiating it. There was no evidence from official sources or reliable media to support the claim, indicating that it was false and misleading.
The document was identified as a fabricated, AI-generated press release, and its circulation was linked to Pakistani propaganda networks as part of a broader disinformation campaign targeting India. Such accounts were noted to have a consistent history of spreading misleading and false narratives.
8. False Claim Alleges Militant Attack on BJP Minister’s Convoy in Manipur
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that militants had attacked a BJP minister’s convoy in Manipur, resulting in the killing of more than 15 Assam Rifles personnel and the capture of others along with the minister.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Manipur Post (@ManipurPost5), which stated that “Manipur freedom fighters” had targeted the vehicles of an Indian BJP minister in Churachandpur, Manipur. The account claimed that the convoy was ambushed, more than 15 Assam Rifles soldiers were killed, and the remaining personnel, including the minister, were captured.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible news report verifying the incident. In reality, on March 23, 2026, a mob had entered and attacked the residence of Kuki-Zo Council chairman Henlianthang Thanglet.
9. False Claims Circulate Alleging Israel Banned Indian Film Dhurandhar
False claims circulated on social media alleged that Israel had officially banned the Indian film Dhurandhar from screening in cinemas.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Zard si Gana (@ZardSi), which stated that Israel had imposed the ban over concerns related to Arab sensitivities and alleged inflammatory content.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible or verified reports indicating that Israel had imposed any ban on Dhurandhar or its sequel Dhurandhar: The Revenge.
Reports indicated that the film had been banned in six countries-the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain-which had collectively blocked its theatrical release over its “anti-Pakistan” content. The film, however, remained unaffected by the U.S.–Israel–Iran conflict and was released as scheduled.
10. AI-Generated Video Falsely Attributes Statement to IAF Pilot on Iran Conflict
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Indian Air Force pilots had requested to join a fight against Iran to avenge Israel.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Whistle Blower (@InsiderWB), which posted a video of Squadron Leader Ankita and asserted that she had made the statement. The account claimed that she said Indian Air Force pilots, particularly female pilots, were requesting the government to allow them to join a fight against what was described as the “Islamic threat of Iran,” and that they would avenge Israel.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless and that the video had been AI-manipulated. No verified news reports or credible sources confirmed the authenticity of the video. In the original footage, Squadron Leader Ankita had stated that their role was to provide a conducive environment for safe flying operations and to ensure the timely and safe completion of missions, which was misrepresented in the circulated clip.
11. AI-Manipulated Video Falsely Attributes Threatening Statement to Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma had threatened countries buying Iranian oil or supplying weapons to Iran.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Whistle Blower (@InsiderWB), which posted a video of Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), and asserted that she had issued such a warning. The account claimed that she had stated that countries receiving Iranian oil supply, as well as those providing weapons and arms to Iran, would remain targets, and that Iranian attacks on Indian commercial ships would not go unanswered.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless and that the video clip had been AI-manipulated. No credible or verified sources supported the claim. In the original video, Sujata Sharma had spoken about alternative fuel options to address an LPG shortage caused by ongoing Middle East shipping disruptions. Her remarks were taken out of context and misrepresented in the circulated clip.
12. False Claim Alleges Naxalite Attack on India-Israel Drone Facility in Delhi
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Naxalites had attacked an India–Israel drone facility in Delhi, resulting in a massive explosion and fire.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Taymur Malik (@BlueMist911), which posted a video showing a large fire and asserted that the incident was the result of an attack on a drone facility. The account claimed that the explosion had engulfed the complex and allegedly killed at least 50 workers, including Indian and Israeli personnel.
A fact check found that the claim was false and fabricated. The footage actually showed a fire that had broken out at the Uttam Nagar Fish Market due to a short circuit on March 12, 2026. Authorities reported that there were no casualties in the incident, and the video had been shared in a false context.
13. False Claim Circulates Alleging India Issued Warning to Iran Over Threats
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that India had issued a stern warning to Iran following recent threats.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Rimland Intelligence (@Rimland_Intel), which posted a video asserting that India had warned Iran and attributed a statement to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs. The account claimed that Jaiswal had stated that if Iran’s involvement in attacks was confirmed, it would receive a harsher reply than Pakistan.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless, and the video had been digitally altered and shared in a false context. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the statements attributed to Randhir Jaiswal were fake, and no such warning to Iran had been issued.
In the original video, Randhir Jaiswal had stated that India remained committed to the welfare of its citizens residing in the Gulf region and informed that two Indians were killed and one was missing when merchant vessels came under attack during the ongoing West Asia conflict.
14. False Claim Alleges Indian Engineer Arrested in Bahrain for Espionage
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Bahraini authorities had captured an Indian engineer for spying for Mossad.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Intel Consortium (@IntelPk_), which posted a purported image and asserted that an Indian telecommunications engineer, identified as Nitin Mohan, had been arrested by Bahrain’s intelligence agencies. The account claimed that he had been involved in transmitting sensitive geospatial data, photographs, and video reconnaissance of strategic locations to Mossad.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible news report or verified source confirming such an incident. The Ministry of External Affairs rejected the claims circulating on social media and clarified that there was no evidence to support the allegation.
According to actual reports, Bahraini authorities had arrested five Pakistani and one Bangladeshi national for cybercrime violations, with no Indian national involved in the case.
15. Digitally Altered Video Falsely Attributes Statement to Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi on Iranian Naval Incident
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Indian Army General Upendra Dwivedi had made statements regarding the sinking of an Iranian naval ship and India’s alleged role in informing Israel.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Whistle Blower (@InsiderWB), which posted a digitally altered video and asserted that the incident had occurred in international waters and that India had informed Israel of the ship’s location under a strategic arrangement. The account further claimed that, during the Raisina Dialogue, General Upendra Dwivedi had stated that while the vessel remained in Indian waters it had been protected, but once it moved into international waters, India had informed Israel of its exact location as part of a strategic deal.
A fact check found that the claims were completely false and that the video had been digitally manipulated and shared in a false context. In the original footage, General Upendra Dwivedi did not make any such statement.
At the Raisina Dialogue 2026, General Upendra Dwivedi had spoken with Harsh Vardhan Shringla on lessons from Operation Sindoor and the evolving nature of warfare, where he stated that India’s policy was to retaliate against terror actions and emphasised synergy across services and agencies.
16. Digitally Altered Video Falsely Attributes Remarks to Former R&AW Chief Vikram Sood
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that former R&AW Chief Vikram Sood had praised Pakistan’s diplomatic handling of the Israel–Iran conflict and suggested that India’s foreign ministry officials should learn from it.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, The Whistle Blower (@InsiderWB), which posted a video purportedly showing Vikram Sood making the remarks. The account circulated a digitally altered clip from an interview given to ANI and presented it in a false context.
A fact check found that the claims were completely fake and fabricated. In the original interview with ANI on the US–Israel versus Iran conflict, Vikram Sood had stated that it was difficult to predict how long the conflict would last, adding that it could continue longer than anticipated as Iran was adopting a different strategy by targeting America’s allies and creating unrest against the United States. He also remarked that Iranians were willing to die while Americans were not.
17. False Claim Circulates Alleging Iran Blocked 38 Indian Ships in Persian Gulf
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Iran had blocked 38 Indian ships in the Persian Gulf in retaliation for India allegedly assisting the United States in sinking an Iranian naval vessel.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Zard si Gana (@ZardSi), which stated in a post that Iran had taken the action against Indian-flagged vessels as a retaliatory measure.
A fact check found that the claim was false. Reports indicated that Indian-flagged ships were stranded due to regional military tensions and the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz, rather than any targeted blockade by Iran.
There was no credible evidence to support the allegation that India had assisted the United States in attacking an Iranian ship or that Iran had deliberately detained Indian vessels.
18. False Claim Circulates Alleging Arrest of Mossad Agents Including Indian National in Saudi Arabia
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Saudi Arabia had arrested two Israeli Mossad agents, including an Indian national, for allegedly attempting to plant bombs to blame Iran.
The claim was shared by a Pakistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Tactical Tribune (@TacticalTribun), which stated that Saudi authorities had captured two Mossad agents who were allegedly trying to plant explosives, and asserted that one of them was an Indian national.
A fact check found that the claim was unfounded and baseless, with no confirmed or verified media reports supporting the allegation.
19. False Claim Circulates Alleging Israel Rejected India’s Akash Air Defence System
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Israel had rejected India’s request to deploy the “Akash” air defence system, citing concerns over its quality and reliability.
The claim was shared by Pakistan-based and anti-India X (formerly Twitter) accounts Zard si Gana (@ZardSi) and GPX News (@PRX_News), which asserted that Israel had declined the deployment request on technical grounds.
A fact check found that the allegations were entirely fabricated and originated from coordinated disinformation networks. There were no verified or credible sources reporting any such development.
The incident also involved the circulation of false and fabricated claims about India-Israel relations by propaganda accounts to set a narrative in the context of ongoing tensions.
20. Report in Pakistani Newspaper Falsely Alleges India Building Storage Dams on Jhelum and Chenab
A report published in the Pakistani newspaper Dawn alleged that India was investing approximately $60 billion in storage projects along the Jhelum and Chenab rivers, claiming that such dams could become a “lethal weapon” against Pakistan by potentially causing floods and droughts.
The report, datelined Islamabad, stated that these views were expressed during a recent federal-provincial dialogue on water storage projects. It attributed the claims to Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) Chairman Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed (retired), who was cited as stating that India’s investment plan could increase its storage capacity on these rivers to between 55 and 60 days, compared to around 15 days at present.
A fact check found that the claims were false and unsubstantiated. No new storage dam projects had been announced by India in recent years, and ongoing projects on the Chenab and Jhelum rivers were identified as run-of-the-river (RoR) projects. These included the Ratle and Sawalakot projects on the Chenab and the Uri II project on the Jhelum, all of which use minimal pondage for electricity generation.
It was also stated that India is permitted to store 3.6 million acre-feet (MAF) of water on the Western Rivers, while the Pakal-Dul project, which has been under construction for nearly a decade, is expected to store approximately 0.1 MAF of water in its reservoir.
The report did not provide timelines or specific locations for the alleged dams. It also cited an unnamed participant who suggested that such storage capacity could lead to drought conditions in Pakistan by allowing India to restrict water flow for extended periods.
21. False Claim Circulates Alleging Closure of Ammonia and Urea Plants in India
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that ammonia and urea plants across India had been shut down, leading to an impending food shortage.
The claim was shared by a United States-based X (formerly Twitter) account, TikTok (@TicTocTick), which reposted content from Saudi Arabia-based user, Abdulaziz Al-Muqbil (@AzizSapphire). The post included a map of India with marked locations of fertiliser plants and asserted that these facilities had been closed, potentially causing massive food shortages by the next wheat harvest season in March 2026.
A fact check found that the claim was unfounded and presented in a misleading context. The map showing fertiliser plant locations was circulated without any factual basis to support the assertion of closures. No verified news reports, government statements, or official data indicated any such widespread shutdown of fertiliser plants in India.
The government stated that there would be no shortage of fertilisers despite disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. Fertiliser plants were placed under ‘Priority Sector-2’ for natural gas supply, ensuring they received at least 70 percent of their average gas requirement, which helped maintain production and ensured timely availability for agricultural use.
22. False Claim Circulates Alleging Closure of Ammonia and Urea Plants in India
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that ammonia and urea plants across India had been shut down, leading to a potential food shortage.
The claim was shared by a Saudi Arabia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Abdulaziz Al-Muqbil (@AzizSapphire), which posted a map of India marking locations of fertiliser plants and asserted that these facilities had been closed, potentially causing massive food shortages by the next wheat harvest season in March 2026.
A fact check found that the claim was unfounded and presented in a misleading context. The map showing fertiliser plant locations was circulated without any factual basis to support the assertion of closures. No verified news reports, government statements, or official data indicated any such widespread shutdown of fertiliser plants in India.
The government stated that there would be no shortage of fertilisers despite disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. Fertiliser plants were placed under ‘Priority Sector-2’ for natural gas supply, ensuring they received at least 70 percent of their average gas requirement, which helped maintain production and ensured timely availability, preventing any impact on agricultural activities.
23. AI-Manipulated Video Falsely Attributes Statement to Army General C.S. Mann on Israel–Iran Conflict
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Army General C.S. Mann had made remarks regarding the Israel–Iran conflict and a coordinated plan involving India and Israel.
The claim was shared by an X (formerly Twitter) account, ١٧٢٧ م﮼ أرطبون (@3lm_a1), which posted a video of the Army General and asserted that he had stated that Iran’s defeat by Israel would lead to a major shift in regional power dynamics. The account further claimed that India would be able to encircle Pakistan from three sides and impose a new strategic reality, including its occupation and annexation.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated. The video had been AI-manipulated and shared with a misleading narrative, and no credible news outlets or verified reports supported the claim.
In the original video, Army General C.S. Mann had stated that no Chinese parts would be used in military components, with his remarks made in the context of defence procurement policies and weapons protocols.
24. False Claim Circulates Alleging India Has Only Nine Days of Oil Reserves
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that India had only nine days of oil reserves remaining.
The claim was shared by an Italy-based Facebook user, Roberto Lorenzetti, who posted about India’s oil and gas situation, asserting that the country was left with limited reserves. The post also alleged that the government had aligned with Israel and the United States while assuring the public that the situation remained stable.
A fact check found that the claim was misleading. India’s total reserve capacity was around 74 days, with the current stock cover estimated at approximately 60 days. This included crude oil, petroleum products, and strategic reserves stored in underground caverns, ensuring nearly two months of assured fuel supply across the country.
It was stated that India’s fuel supply remained stable and secure for the coming months, with no cause for concern regarding availability.
25. False Claim Circulates Alleging India Has Only Nine Days of Oil Reserves
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that India had only nine days of oil reserves remaining.
The claim was shared by an Argentina-based X (formerly Twitter) user, Spenglerito (@SebaZ3), who posted about global oil geopolitics and asserted that India’s reserves were critically low. The post stated, “The geopolitics of oil. The Strait of Hormuz changing the global balance and the distribution of capabilities. Dependence and vulnerability. Without energy, there is no power. Without power, there is no survival.”
The content was categorised under social welfare and public services-related propaganda.
A fact check found that the claim was misleading. India’s total reserve capacity was around 74 days, with the current stock cover estimated at approximately 60 days. This included crude oil, petroleum products, and strategic reserves stored in underground caverns, ensuring nearly two months of assured fuel supply across the country.
It was stated that India’s fuel supply remained stable and secure for the coming months, with no cause for concern regarding availability.
26. False Claim Circulates Alleging Fire at India–Israel Defence Facility in Delhi
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that a massive fire had broken out at a joint India–Israel defence facility in New Delhi.
The claim was shared by an Afghanistan-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Zabihullah Mujahid (مهاجر ا ذبیح) (@Rohani808), which posted a video and asserted that a facility manufacturing Harop drones had caught fire, allegedly resulting in the deaths of Indian and Israeli personnel.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless, with no credible news report verifying the incident. The video had been shared in a false context.
The footage was identified as originating from a massive fire that had broken out in Uttam Nagar near Machhli Mandi in Delhi.
27. Classroom Video Falsely Shared with Communal Claim of Assault in Delhi Office
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that a Hindu employee was assaulting a Muslim woman observing Roza in a government office in Delhi.
The claim was shared by a Bangladesh-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Md Rafiqul Islam Hoby (@MrHoby1), which posted a video and asserted that a Hindu colleague had struck a Muslim woman with a shoe while she was fasting. The post further alleged that the incident reflected insecurity for women working in offices.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with the video shared in a false context. Keyframes from the footage were extracted and a reverse image search identified the same video on a YouTube channel named Commando Academy Life.
The video showed that the individual in the footage was Virat Chaudhary, who runs Commando Academy. The original recording was from a classroom setting, where a student seated with books in front of him appeared to have fallen asleep.
In the original context, the incident depicted Virat Chaudhary waking up the student by hitting him with a shoe during class. There was no communal angle to the video, and the claim of an assault involving a Hindu employee and a Muslim woman was found to be false.
28. False Claim Circulates Alleging Iranian Missile Strike on Indian Tanker
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that an Indian oil tanker flying a Bangladeshi flag had been attacked by Iranian missiles while crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
The claim was shared by a Bangladesh-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Voice of Bangladeshi Muslims (@VOBMUSLIMs), which asserted that the vessel had been targeted during transit.
The content was categorised under diplomacy and international relations-related propaganda involving misleading claims on international affairs.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated. The post had used an image of the Liberia-flagged vessel Shenlong Suezmax in a false context, and no credible news reports or official sources had verified any such incident. There was no evidence of an attack on an Indian tanker flying a Bangladeshi flag.
Reports indicated that the Liberia-flagged tanker Shenlong Suezmax, carrying Saudi crude, had reached Mumbai Port and was identified as the first India-bound vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the onset of the Iran-U.S. conflict. The vessel had loaded crude at Ras Tanura on March 1, departed on March 3, 2026, and was last tracked in the Strait of Hormuz on March 8 before temporarily going off tracking systems.
29. Classroom Video Falsely Shared with Communal Claim of Assault in Workplace
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that a Hindu employee had assaulted a Muslim woman observing Roza in a workplace setting.
The claim was shared by a West Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, GBX (@GBX_Press), which posted a video and asserted that a Hindu manager had struck a fasting Muslim woman with a slipper after she felt sleepy at work.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with the video shared in a false context. Keyframes from the footage were extracted and a reverse image search identified the same video on a YouTube channel named Commando Academy Life.
The video showed that the individual in the footage was Virat Chaudhary, who runs Commando Academy. The original recording was from a classroom setting, where a person seated with books in front of him appeared to have fallen asleep.
In the original context, the incident depicted Virat Chaudhary waking up a student by hitting him with a shoe during class. There was no communal angle to the video, and the claim of an assault involving a Hindu employee and a Muslim woman was found to be false.
30. False Claim Circulates Alleging Indian Tanker Allowed Passage After Payment in Chinese Yuan
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that an Indian oil tanker had been allowed to pass through a key maritime route after making payment in Chinese yuan.
The claim was shared by West Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) accounts Aleksey Berezutski (@aleksbrz11) and NEXT (@Urgent_RussiaTV), which posted a video and asserted that the tanker had been permitted to cross following such a transaction. The accounts further described the development as a shift in regional trade practices and made allegations regarding India’s leadership.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible news report or verified source supporting it. The video being circulated was identified as footage of the Nandadevi tanker, which had been shared in a misleading and false context to support the claim.
31. Classroom Video Falsely Shared with Communal Claim of Workplace Harassment
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that a Hindu employee had assaulted a Muslim woman observing Roza in a government office in Delhi.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, International Relations (@Intl_Relations0), which posted a video and asserted that a fasting Muslim woman had been harassed by a male colleague. The post described the incident as raising concerns about women’s safety, dignity, and respect in workplaces.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with the video shared in a false context. Keyframes from the footage were extracted and a reverse image search identified the same video on a YouTube channel named Commando Academy Life.
The video showed that the individual in the footage was Virat Chaudhary, who runs Commando Academy. The original recording was from a classroom setting, where a person seated with books in front of him appeared to have fallen asleep.
In the original context, the incident depicted Virat Chaudhary waking up a student by hitting him with a shoe during class. There was no communal angle to the video, and the claim of an assault involving a Hindu employee and a Muslim woman was found to be false.
32. Government Denies False Claim of 3,000 Ukrainians Entering India to Train Insurgents
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that more than 3,000 Ukrainians had entered India and were hiding in the North-East to train insurgent groups.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Priya Sharma (@PriyaViews), which asserted that the individuals were backed by U.S. mercenaries and were supplying low-cost drones to terrorist groups. The post further described Ukraine in a derogatory comparison while making these allegations.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible news reports or official sources supporting the assertions. Government authorities denied the claims circulating on social media.
Verified reports indicated that only seven individuals-six Ukrainians and one American-had been arrested by India’s National Investigation Agency for illegally entering Myanmar via Mizoram, an incident unrelated to the viral claim.
33. False Claim Circulates Alleging India–U.S. Agreement on Military Logistical Support
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that former U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reached an agreement for India to provide full logistical support to U.S. forces.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Anushi Tiwari (Proud Indian) (@Proudindiannavi), which asserted that the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force would offer full logistical support, including the use of Indian bases, in relation to operations against Iran.
A fact check found that the claims were entirely baseless and fabricated, with no verified or credible sources reporting any such agreement or development between India and the United States. There was no official confirmation supporting the assertion.
34. False Claim Circulates Alleging India Threatened Iran with Naval Operation
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that India had threatened Iran with launching a strong naval operation if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Anushi Tiwari (Proud Indian) (@Proudindiannavi), which asserted that the Indian Navy had entered the seas against Iran and warned that a major operation would be launched targeting Iranian installations if the Strait remained closed.
A fact check found that the claim was baseless and fabricated, with no credible news reports or official statements confirming any such threat. The claim was identified as entirely false and unfounded.
35. False Claim Circulates Alleging India’s Role in Iranian Ship Attack and Navy Chief’s Resignation
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that India had assisted in an attack on an Iranian ship and that the Naval Chief was preparing to resign.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Anushi Tiwari (Proud Indian) (@Proudindiannavi), which asserted that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Vice Chief of Navy Sanjay Vatsayan had been involved in the alleged attack. The post further claimed that Naval Chief Dinesh Kumar Tripathi was preparing to resign following the incident.
A fact check found that the claims were fake and baseless, with no credible news report or verified source confirming the allegations. There was no evidence to support the assertion that India’s Defence Minister or naval officials were involved in any such incident.
No official clarification or statement had been issued by the Government of India regarding these claims, indicating that the viral assertions lacked authenticity and were misleading.
36. False Claim Circulates Alleging Fighter Jet Shot Down by Manipur Group
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that the Manipur Armed National Army had shot down an Indian fighter jet.
The claim was shared by a South Asia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Manipur Post (@ManipurPost5), which stated that the incident marked a “big victory” for the people of Manipur. The post claimed that the group had shot down an Indian fighter aircraft that was allegedly going to attack civilians, and concluded with the slogan “Long Live Manipur.”
A fact check found that the claim was baseless and unfounded. According to news reports, a routine training mission of the Indian Air Force ended in tragedy when a Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet crashed in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board.
The aircraft had taken off from the Jorhat Air Base on the evening of March 05, 2026, but lost contact with ground control shortly after takeoff.
37. False Claims Circulate Alleging Violence by Indian Army and Assam Rifles in Manipur
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that personnel of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles had carried out violence against civilians in Manipur.
The claim was shared by an Australia-based X (formerly Twitter) account, PatrolLifeAustralia (@PatrolAustalia), which reposted content from Manipur Post (@ManipurPost5) and asserted that Indian Army and Assam Rifles personnel had entered Litan, Manipur, burned homes, opened fire on civilians, and carried out assaults, including sexual violence. The post also included commentary describing the alleged actions in a critical manner.
A fact check found that the allegations were entirely baseless and fabricated, with no verified or credible sources supporting the claims and no evidence from official reports or reliable media to substantiate them. In reality, armed miscreants had continued to spread chaos a day after Yumnam Khemchand had confirmed their presence in the hills.
The incident also involved the circulation of false and fabricated claims about the Indian Armed Forces by propaganda accounts to set a narrative against India.
38. AI-Generated Video Falsely Attributes Statement to PM Narendra Modi on Israel–Iran Conflict
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed support for Israel in the Israel–Iran conflict and made statements regarding regional political objectives.
The claim was shared by a Nigeria-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Adamu B. Garba II, MSc, MNIIA, FIDPM (@adamugarba), which posted a video asserting that the Prime Minister had stated that Iran would have to answer for spreading terrorism and that the fall of the Iranian regime was necessary for broader geopolitical goals.
A fact check found that the claim was false and that the video had been artificially altered using AI technology. No verified news reports or credible sources confirmed the statement attributed to the Prime Minister.
In the original video, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken at the NXT Summit about Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March, and no such remarks related to the Israel-Iran conflict were made.
39. False Claim Circulates Alleging Arrest of Indian Spy in Bahrain
A false claim circulated on social media alleged that Bahrain had captured an Indian national accused of spying for Mossad.
The claim was shared by a UK-based X (formerly Twitter) account, MENA Unleashed (@MENAUnleashed), which asserted that an Indian individual had been arrested and accused of treason for allegedly working with Israeli intelligence. The post also called for a ban and deportation of Indians, alleging alignment with Israel.
A fact check found that the claim was fake and fabricated, with no credible news report or verified source confirming such an incident. The Ministry of External Affairs had not issued any confirmation regarding the claim.
40. Deepfake Video Falsely Attributes Statement to Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi on Iranian Ship Incident
A misleading claim circulated on social media alleged that Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi had stated that India shared the location of an Iranian ship with Israel under a strategic arrangement.
The claim was shared by a Europe-based X (formerly Twitter) account, Richard (@ricwe123), which posted a video asserting that once the Iranian vessel entered international waters, India had informed Israel of its exact location as part of a strategic deal.
A fact check found that the video was an AI-generated deepfake and that the claim was false. There was no credible record or verified report of General Upendra Dwivedi making any such statement.
At the Raisina Dialogue 2026, General Upendra Dwivedi had participated in a discussion on the evolving nature of warfare with Harsh Vardhan Pant, Vice President of the Observer Research Foundation. No remarks related to the claims circulated in the video were made during the event, and the context presented in the clip was entirely fabricated.
Step back and look at the pattern. What appears at first glance as scattered misinformation actually forms a structured information campaign. The repetition is not accidental. Defence narratives, India-Israel ties, Middle East tensions, Manipur unrest, and communal angles were repeatedly targeted using similar templates-fake videos, recycled visuals, fabricated statements, and AI-generated content.
Here’s what matters?
The toolkit has evolved. Deepfakes, synthetic audio, and context manipulation are no longer fringe tactics-they are now central instruments in shaping perception. The credibility of institutions, from the armed forces to diplomatic channels, is being tested not on the battlefield but in the information domain. And the speed at which these narratives spread often outpaces verification.
Another clear takeaway is the international spread of these sources. Disinformation did not originate from a single geography. It flowed through a network-Pakistan-based handles, West Asian amplifiers, European accounts, and Western social media users-creating a layered echo system. This gives false narratives both reach and perceived legitimacy.
The implications go beyond misinformation. These campaigns aim to influence how Bharat is seen globally and how citizens perceive their own institutions. They attempt to inject doubt, provoke reaction, and create friction-social, political, and diplomatic.
This is not just about fact-checking individual claims. It is about recognising an ongoing information conflict where narrative control matters as much as ground reality. Vigilance, verification, and institutional credibility remain the strongest counters in this evolving landscape.
