Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, a fake advisory has been circulating on social media, claiming to be issued by the Indian government. The advisory urged citizens to take precautionary measures, including keeping ₹50,000 in cash, stocking up on two months' worth of medicines, and ensuring their vehicles are fully fueled. It further advised people to stay calm and alert, given the "ongoing tense situation at the border".
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check, a government nodal agency, has debunked this advisory as fake. PIB Fact Check stated that the government has not issued any such advisory and cautioned people to rely only on official government sources for information. The PIB also shared this information on their Twitter handle.
The fake advisory lacks official logos, agency attribution, or authentication, yet it mimics the tone and format of government-issued alerts. This has raised concerns, especially after the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. The April 22 attack, which killed 26 people, mostly civilians, has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.
Authorities are emphasizing that spreading false information, especially during sensitive times, is irresponsible and punishable under Indian cyber laws. Citizens are advised to avoid sharing or forwarding such messages and to verify information with official sources like the Ministry of Home Affairs, PIB Fact Check, or state disaster management units. They are also encouraged to report such messages to the platforms where they are found.
In light of these events, mock security drills are being conducted across various states in India. These drills, directed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), aim to strengthen civil defense mechanisms and prepare citizens for potential hostile attacks. The drills include air-raid warning sirens and training civilians on self-protection measures.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has also discussed the rising tensions between India and Pakistan in closed-door consultations, with envoys calling for de-escalation and dialogue.
