A few days ago, news started circulating on social media platforms regarding a supposed “Mega Poppy Flower Sale” organized by the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) in Lamka, outer Manipur, scheduled from 30th September to 2nd October.
This fabricated news of the Poppy flower sale quickly gained traction on various social media platforms. Prominent individuals who shared the false statement include @rajkumar_Yaima, @RadhabinodSingh, @LamyanbaNaoroi, @comebackshanti, @thoudam_parasis, and @lumfu_Tombung. Their involvement in spreading unverified information has contributed to the circulation of this deceptive claim.
LM Khaute declares love of poppy flowers, ITLF announces Flower Sale honoring da love. Wat do we interpret of this press release? One Prof askin 4 legalisation of poppy cultivation. U needed 4 months violence & ovr 70K displaced people 2 make dis point#KukiLies @MajorAliShah pic.twitter.com/WbuPFp7Nz6
— shanti (@comebackshanti) September 26, 2023
Source and Credibility Check
To verify the authenticity of this claim, a thorough investigation was conducted. The initial source of this information was not clearly established, making it essential to look at ITLF’s official channels. ITLF, an organization known for its engagement with tribal issues, has a history of releasing official statements and announcements. Yet, upon careful examination, no such announcement of the “Mega Poppy Flower Sale” was found on their official website or any of their verified social media accounts.
For reference, you can visit ITLF’s official website to view all their legitimate press releases. [Click Here]
Furthermore, a significant red flag was detected upon close inspection of the statement in question. Unlike ITLF’s genuine statements, this statement of the “Mega Poppy Flower Sale” lacked the specific watermark of the ITLF logo in the background. All legitimate communications from ITLF are accompanied by their original watermark and stamp, ensuring their authenticity.
Conclusion
The motive behind the creation and dissemination of this fabricated statement appears to be a propaganda effort aimed at influencing a particular community. The intent seems to be to manipulate public perception and possibly incite unnecessary panic or unrest. In light of the evidence presented, it is evident that the statement regarding a “Mega Poppy Flower Sale” organized by ITLF in Lamka, Manipur, is entirely false and unsubstantiated. Following a precise analysis and fact-checking, our team has reviewed the claim. You can refer to the findings of this inquiry in the Twitter thread below.
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— D-Intent Data (@dintentdata) September 29, 2023
ANALYSIS: Fake
FACT: A fabricated statement in the name of ITLF claiming that the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) is going to organize a "Mega Poppy Flower Sale" from 30th September to 2nd October in Lamka, outer Manipur.(1/3) pic.twitter.com/2C5nwfJQOj
Claim: A statement attributed to ITLF regarding a “Mega Poppy Flower Sale” in Lamka, Manipur, is circulating on social media.
Fact: The statement is entirely fabricated and lacks credibility. ITLF has not issued any such statement, and the absence of their official watermark raises suspicions about its authenticity.