A few weeks ago, a morphed image of India Today’s monthly magazine cover was being circulated online, sparking controversy and raising questions about its authenticity. The manipulated image replaced Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on the original cover with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to tarnish both their images amid Manipur violence backdrop. The manipulation even omitted changing Singh’s name, thereby raising suspicions about the image’s credibility. The image’s circulation, allegedly initiated by former cricketer turned Trinamool Congress politician Kirti Azad, drew attention due to its potential political agenda.
India Today’s Swift Response:
In response to the circulated image, India Today promptly debunked its authenticity. The media house announced its decision to pursue legal action against those responsible for sharing the fake image and utilizing it for political purposes. Via Twitter, India Today condemned the act, affirming its commitment to delivering accurate information. They emphasized the importance of countering the spread of fake news and disinformation in a time when such acts are rampant.
Kirti Azad’s Track Record:
Kirti Azad’s involvement in circulating fake, misleading, and propagandist content was not new. This incident followed a pattern of behavior where Azad had been known to engage in disseminating dubious information to further his political interests. This raised concerns about the intention behind the circulation of the manipulated magazine cover, further complicating the credibility of the image and its implications.
Intent Behind Manipulated Image:
The motivation behind the circulation of this manipulated image became apparent when considering the broader context of Indian politics. The image appeared to serve as a tool for political influencers seeking to tarnish the image of PM Modi and his party, both at the national and state levels, particularly within Manipur. The image’s digital alteration aligned with a larger pattern of utilizing misinformation and propaganda to shape public opinion and undermine political opponents.
Conclusion:
After conducting an extensive and thorough analysis, our team engaged in fact-checking the claim. You can find the results of this investigation in the Twitter thread that is embedded below for your reference.
CLAIM : Prime Minister Modi’s image was published as cover poster in India Today’s Monthly Magazine with caption ‘Shameful Blunders’.
FACT : It’s completely fake and just being circulated to promote political agenda.
In our pursuit of accurate and unbiased information, we’ve diligently fact-checked the claims surrounding the incident. Misinformation can sow discord and disrupt communal harmony. Your support matters greatly in our mission to foster an informed and united society. Together, let’s strive to make India and Indians proud, upholding truth and unity. Jai Hind.
