In the realm of digital information, fake news and propaganda have the power to sow seeds of discord and communal unrest. Recently, a fabricated news cutting in the name of News18 circulated widely, claiming that the Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) stationed in Manipur during the ethnic violence had requested more bulletproof jackets and helmets due to increasing gunfight incidents with Meitei militants. This blog dissects the incident, delving into the misleading tweets, the fact-checking process conducted by D-Intent, and the underlying intent behind this misinformation campaign.
Misleading Tweets: Amplifying False Claims and Spreading Hatred
On a given day, Twitter can become a breeding ground for misinformation to flourish. In this case, a Twitter user with the handle “@DrLamtinthangHk” shared a tweet containing a fabricated news cutting from News18. The tweet falsely claimed that the CRPF had specifically mentioned Meitei militants and their involvement in the request for additional protective gear. This misleading tweet gained traction, sparking controversy and potential communal tensions.
Here is the link to the misleading tweet:
Archived: Misleading Tweet (Archived)
Fact-Checking by D-Intent: Separating Truth from Fiction
In the face of misinformation, fact-checking plays a crucial role in setting the record straight. D-Intent, a renowned fact-checking organization, investigated the claims made in the fabricated news cutting. Through their research, they discovered the original article on the News18 website, which stated that the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) had indeed requested additional bulletproof jackets and helmets due to a “developing situation” in Manipur. However, there was no mention of any particular community or Meitei militants in the article.
To provide evidence and transparency, D-Intent shared their findings through a tweet. Here is the link to their fact-checking article:
Archived: Fact-Checking Article (Archived)
The Intent Behind the Incident: Fanning Communal Unrest
The dissemination of fake news and propaganda serves a purpose beyond spreading falsehoods. In this case, the intent behind circulating the manipulated news cutting is to create communal unrest and target a specific community. By distorting facts, amplifying false claims, and fanning the flames of division, the propagators aim to instigate tensions and erode social harmony.
Understanding the underlying intent behind such incidents is crucial to identifying and countering such misinformation campaigns effectively. It emphasizes the need for critical thinking, fact-checking, and responsible consumption of information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the incident involving the circulation of a fake news cutting in the name of News18, falsely claiming the involvement of Meitei militants in the request for additional protective gear, sheds light on the dangers of misinformation propaganda. By examining the misleading tweets, the fact-checking efforts by D-Intent, and the underlying intent behind the incident, we gain valuable insights into the strategies employed by those who seek to manipulate public perception. Let us remain vigilant, verify information, and foster a more informed and unified society.
Also read- False Narrative on social media about the Harassment of a Girl in Bihar
