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No evidence to conclude that Einstein proved the existence of God to his Professor - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 30, 2022
A social media post that shares an anecdote from Albert Einstein’s life, wherein he explains to his teacher about the existence of God is being widely shared. The post attributes a quote ‘just like the darkness and cold. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God’s love present in his heart’ to Einstein. Through this article let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Anecdote of  Einstein proving the existence of God to his professor.
Fact: There are no credible reports attributing this anecdote to Einstein. Further, there is no mention about this in ‘Einstein: A Life, a biography’ published in 1996.  Available evidence suggests that Einstein was religious as a child, however, later on in life, he ‘abandoned his uncritical religious fervor, feeling he had been deceived into believing lies’.  Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
We could not find any credible reports attributing this anecdote to Einstein. Even in the autobiography of Einstein ‘Einstein: A Life’ we could not find any mention of the account in line with the one mentioned in the post.
‘According to Einstein: A Life, a biography published in 1996, Einstein was devoutly religious as a child. But at the age of 13, he abandoned his uncritical religious fervor, feeling he had been deceived into believing lies’, reported the Guardian.
Further, a letter addressed to philosopher Eric Gutkind in 1954, captures Einstein’s reflections on God. In this letter Einstein wrote ‘The word God is for me nothing more than the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of honorable, but still primitive, legends which are nevertheless pretty childish.’
As reported by another article, on another instance, Einstein wrote in a letter that ‘he believes in Spinoza’s God who reveals himself in the harmony of all that exists, but not in a God who concerns himself with the fate and actions of human beings.’
However, as per the Guardian, Einstein did not like to be labelled as atheist. According to Nick Spencer, a senior fellow at the Christian thinktank Theos, ‘Einstein offers scant consolation to either party in this debate. His cosmic religion and distant deistic God fit neither the agenda of religious believers nor that of tribal atheists.’
On another occasion, Einstein criticised ‘fanatical atheists whose intolerance is of the same kind as the intolerance of the religious fanatics’.
Thus, from the above, it is evident that Einstein was religious as a child and later on in life, he became more critical of religion. However, no credible report attributed the anecdote shared in the post to Einstein.
The same story has been doing rounds on internet for over two decades. Snopes debunked the same story as fake back in 2004.
To sum it up, there is no evidence to conclude that Einstein proved the existence of God to his professor.


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No Evidence to Prove Omicron XBB Variant Has Higher Mortality Rate Than Delta Variant of COVID-19 - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
December 19, 2023
In light of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in India, particularly in Kerala, a post about the virality and mortality of the Omicron XBB variant is gaining widespread attention on social media. This post claims that this variant is five times more virulent and has a higher mortality rate than the Delta variant. Let’s verify the claims made in the post.
Claim: Omicron XBB variant of COVID-19 is five times more virulent and has higher mortality than Delta Variant.
Fact: According to the WHO and other studies, current research suggests that while the Omicron XBB variant of COVID-19 is highly transmissible, there is no evidence to substantiate that it is more severe than the Delta variant. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
According to a statement released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in October 2022, XBB is a recombined subvariant, a sub-lineage of the Omicron variants BA.2.10.1 and BA.2.75, first identified in August 2022. The WHO mentions that while further studies are necessary, current data do not suggest substantial differences in disease severity for XBB infections. However, there is early evidence indicating a higher risk of reinfection compared to other circulating Omicron sublineages.
Other studies also reveal that while early analysis suggests the XBB variant is more transmissible than earlier variants, it appears to cause less severe disease.
Furthermore, when the same post went viral in December 2022, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare labelled it as fake and misleading, urging people to refrain from sharing it.
#FakeNews
This message is circulating in some Whatsapp groups regarding XBB variant of #COVID19.
The message is #FAKE and #MISLEADING. pic.twitter.com/LAgnaZjCCi
However, with the recent surge of cases in Kerala infected with JN.1, a Covid variant that descended from BA.2.86 – the Pirola variant from Omicron, the Union health ministry has written to states and Union Territories. They have been asked to monitor cases of influenza-like illnesses, conduct adequate testing, and send all positive samples for whole genome sequencing. More information about the symptoms, precautions, and treatment can be found here.
To sum it up, while the XBB variant of COVID-19 is considered highly transmissible, there is no evidence to prove that it is more severe than the Delta variant.

source: news-factly

created: December 19, 2023

license: Creative Commons - Attribution - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

author: Sai Krishna Muthyanolla


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No evidence to prove that eating Ginger immediately after a heart attack will remove heart blockages instantly - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
November 3, 2022
A video is being widely shared on social media platforms claiming that consuming ginger immediately after a heart attack relieves the patient by removing the blockage in heart. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Consuming ginger immediately after a heart attack relieves the patient by removing the blockage in heart.
Fact: According to research published on National Library of Medicine and WebMD, ginger is effective in maintaining heart health. However, there is no evidence to suggest that consumption of ginger immediately after a heart attack saves the patient by immediately removing the heart blockage. Hence the claim made in the post is MISEADING.
According to Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC), heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the main cause of heart attack. A less common cause is a severe spasm, or sudden contraction, of a coronary artery that can stop blood flow to the heart muscle.
We then searched for medical evidence, research, and publications regarding the effectiveness of ginger in treatment of heart attack. According to a research paper published on National Library of Medicine’s website,
“Several herbal medicines were used to develop new drugs with more potency and minor side effects. Amongst natural entities, ginger is used as a traditional medicine in several diseases. The crude extract, along with related pungent active constituents, is mostly attributed to heart health. The cardioprotective effects of ginger are contributed to its cardiotonic, anti- hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidaemia, and anti-platelet effects.”
Also, as per WebMD, ginger helps the body to fight off diseases like high blood pleasure and heart disease and lowers cholesterol.
However, there is no evidence to suggest that consumption of ginger immediately after a heart attack saves the person by removing heart blockage instantly.
Mayo clinic recommends the following steps to follow during a heart attack:
To know more about heart attack treatments and medications, visit this page.
To sum it up, even though ginger is effective in maintaining heart health, there is no evidence to suggest that consumption of ginger immediately after a heart attack saves the patient by immediately removing the heart blockage.

created: November 3, 2022


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No evidence to prove that the occurrence of the equinox will directly cause rapid dehydration - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 24, 2023
A widely circulated post on social media claims that between May 22 and 28, the sun is directly above the equator, referred to as the Equinox. The post further states that during this period, the body experiences rapid dehydration and advises people to drink more water. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: The body experiences rapid dehydration during the equinox which happens between May 22-28.
Fact: Equinoxes typically occur around the 20th of March and the 22nd of September each year. During these times, the Sun passes directly above the equator, resulting in nearly equal amounts of day and night worldwide. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that equinoxes directly cause rapid dehydration. However, it is important to emphasize that maintaining proper hydration is crucial not only during the equinox but also on any other day, especially during the summer seasons. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
An equinox is a celestial occurrence characterized by the alignment of the Sun directly above the Earth’s equator. The word equinox is derived from two Latin words – aequus (equal) and nox (night). During an equinox, which transpires twice a year, typically around the 20 of March and the 22 of September, the Sun will pass directly above the equator, bringing nearly equal amounts of day and night on all parts of Earth. At the equator, an equinox results in about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of night.
The March equinox – also called the vernal equinox – is the beginning of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumn season in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2023, it arrived on the 20th of March.  Similarly, The September equinox, also known as the autumnal equinox, marks the beginning of the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere and the spring season in the Southern Hemisphere. In the year 2023, it will occur on the 23of September.
Additionally, after looking into the matter, it has been discovered that the viral post has been circulating since 2016. However, experts in the field have stated that the claim made in the post about the equinox days causing rapid dehydration in the body is not supported by scientific evidence. They have called it a hoax and confirmed that there is no direct link between the occurrence of equinox and dehydration. Relevant articles can be read here, here and here.
However, it is important to highlight that maintaining proper hydration is crucial not only during the equinox but also on any other day, particularly during the summer seasons. It is essential to stay hydrated to ensure optimal health and well-being. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings about the occurrence of heat waves in several locations across the country. In light of this, the public is advised to take necessary safety precautions to protect themselves from the adverse effects of extreme heat.
To sum it up, there is no evidence to prove that the occurrence of the equinox will directly cause rapid dehydration.


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No evidence to show that a liquid hack which includes Apple cider vinegar leads to rapid significant weight loss without the need for exercise - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 26, 2022
A video through a post is being widely shared on social media claiming that a 10 second liquid hack leads to rapid weight loss without the need for exercise. The post even has a link to a website which gives the supposed story of a woman who reduced her weight using that liquid, apparently without any exercise. Let us fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: A liquid hack that includes Apple cider vinegar leads to rapid and large weight loss without the need for exercise.
Fact: Though there is some evidence that Apple cider vinegar might help in weight loss; more large-scale research needs to be done on Apple cider vinegar’s effect on rapid significant weight loss. Due to its high acidity, consuming large amounts of Apple cider vinegar can have side effects and contraindications. Some research does show that caffeine and green tea might influence metabolism but there is no evidence that indicates it leads to rapid weight loss without any exercise. For a healthy weight loss, lifestyle changes, healthy eating patterns and regular physical activity is necessary. Hence, the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
The video shows a cup that contains apple cider vinegar, with a spoon of unidentified white powder added to it. Some other videos viral on social media (here and here) also show same glass and there are packets of apple cider vinegar, baking soda shown in a similar location. Those posts also claim weight loss of 45 kilograms without exercise, after a simple 10 second liquid hack. (The links given in these posts just have a woman’s testimonial who claims to have rapidly lost a lot of weight without any exercise)
Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar is a sour condiment because of a two-step fermentation process. Yeast turns sugar in the juice to alcohol; bacteria turn the alcohol into acetic acid. This gives vinegar the sour taste and smell.
Apple cider vinegar has a history as a home remedy. It is also used in cooking. Some studies suggest that Apple cider vinegar helps in weight loss. In a 2009 study, 175 Japanese people were made to consume 0, 1, or 2 tablespoons of vinegar each day. After three months, those who consumed vinegar lost weight modestly (2 to 4 pounds) than those who drank none of it. In a 2018 study as well, the group which consumed Apple cider vinegar lost more weight than the group which didn’t.
Though there is some evidence that Apple cider vinegar might help in less appetite and more weight loss; more large-scale research needs to be done on Apple cider vinegar’s effect on rapid significant weight loss. Due to its high acidity, consuming large amounts of Apple cider vinegar can have side effects and contraindications.
According to the CDC, for a healthy weight loss, long-term lifestyle changes, healthy eating patterns and regular physical activity are necessary.
Some research (here and here) does show that caffeine and green tea might influence metabolism but there is no evidence that indicates it leads to rapid weight loss without any exercise.
To sum it up, there is no evidence to show that a liquid hack which includes Apple cider vinegar leads to rapid significant weight loss without the need for physical exercise.


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No evidence to suggest that Ambedkar said – ‘Abolish reservations once a tribal woman becomes Indian President’ - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
July 1, 2022
A post is being shared on social media with a claim that B. R. Ambedkar said – “The day a tribal woman becomes the President of India (the highest office), the reservation should be abolished in the country” (translated). Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: B. R. Ambedkar said – “The day a tribal woman becomes the President of India (the highest office), the reservation should be abolished in the country”
Fact: No evidence was found on the internet to confirm that Ambedkar made that statement. He made no such comments either in the Constitutional Assembly debates or in his books. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched on the internet whether Ambedkar made that statement, no proper evidence was found. In the context of Draupadi Murmu being nominated as NDA’s Presidential candidate, if any such statement was made by Ambedkar previously, it would have been highlighted by various media agencies now. But none of them reported any such comments by Ambedkar.
He made no such comments in the Constitutional Assembly debates. Some of his statements in the Constitutional Assembly regarding reservations can be found here, here, here, and here.
Also, the statement was not found in his ‘Annihilation of Caste’, and his other writings and speeches.
To sum it up, there is no evidence to suggest that Ambedkar said – ‘Abolish reservations once a tribal woman becomes Indian President’.


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No Evidence to suggest that Engineers were given special privileges in these countries - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 23, 2023
A post is being shared on social media that highlights certain claims regarding the respect and privileges enjoyed by engineers in different countries. In this article, we will verify the authenticity of these claims.
Claim: Instances of respect and privileges granted to Engineers in various countries.
Fact: In US and Europe, engineers are not the highest paying jobs in mean wise or median wise. In French courts, individuals need to have certain legal qualifications to become lawyer. Also, Japanese penal code does not include any provisions that grant special privileges to engineers during the time of arrest. Hence the claims made in the post are FALSE.
Do engineers get the highest salary in American and European countries?
While it is valid that certain individuals working as engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace may receive exceptionally high salaries, it is important to note that engineers, as a whole, do not hold the position of the highest-paid profession in the United States and Europe. Referring to the latest data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, it becomes evident that doctors specializing in various fields, including Cardiology, Ophthalmology, Paediatrics, and others, earn the highest mean and median salaries across the United States.
Additionally, it is worth noting that professionals such as the President, Vice President, and other high-ranking positions also rank among the highest paid jobs in the United States. Similarly, when considering data from other European countries like the United Kingdom and Germany, it becomes apparent that engineers do not hold the title of the highest-paid profession.
Only Engineers can become Judges in French Courts?
In France, judges are selected from individuals who have pursued legal studies and obtained relevant qualifications in law. To become a judge in France, one must typically complete a law degree, followed by further legal training and passing competitive examinations specific to the judiciary. Once a candidate has been selected to become a judge, they will undergo a period of further legal training at the École Nationale de la Magistrature (ENM).
Police in Japan can arrest an engineer only after getting permission from Government?
Japanese penal code does not include any provisions that grant special privileges to engineers during the time of the arrest. Therefore, engineers are generally treated similar to individuals from other professions within the criminal justice system.
Only scientists and engineers are considered VIPs in USA?
Although there is no official designation or published list of Very Important Persons (VIPs) in the United States, it is widely recognized that individuals who have held or currently hold prominent positions such as Presidents, former Presidents, Vice Presidents, and other high-ranking officials are given official protection and benefits and certain privileges.
To sum it up, the claims asserting that engineers are regarded as special individuals with specific privileges in various countries are not substantiated.


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No evidence to suggest that Nostradamus had predicted the outbreak of Coronavirus in 2020 - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 13, 2020
A message with the claim that French Astrologer Nostradamus had predicted the outbreak of Coronavirus in 2020 is making rounds on social media. The crux of the message is that Nostradamus, in 1551, had predicted the rise of Coronavirus in a twin year (i.e. 2020) in the east (i.e. China) which will affect the country with 7 hills (i.e. Italy) and it will lead to the end of the world economy. ‘FACTLY’ has found that no such prediction was ever made by Nostradamus and it is being circulated only recently after the COVID-19 outbreak. Also, other fact-checkers across the globe have already debunked the message.
Sources:
Claim – Facebook post (archived)
Fact – https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Les_Propheties
http://www.nostradamus.org/https://www.sacred-texts.com/nos/#prophecieshttps://www.reuters.com/article/uk-factcheck-coronavirus-nostradamus/false-claim-nostradamus-predicted-the-coronavirus-outbreak-idUSKCN21R388
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No evidence to suggest that the mixture of lemon and baking soda can kill SARS-CoV-2 virus - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 17, 2020
A message is being shared widely on social media with a claim that Israel has reported zero COVID-19 deaths because they have found the cure for COVID-19. It is being claimed that drinking the mixture of lemon and baking soda as hot tea can kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19 disease. Let’s try to analyze the claim made in the post.
No COVID-19 deaths in Israel as they found a cure for COVID-19 – a mixture of lemon and baking soda.
Fact: As on 16 April 2020, Israel reported 126 deaths due to COVID-19. Also, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that the mixture of lemon and baking soda can kill SARS-CoV-2 virus. As of today, there is no mixture/medicine to prevent or cure COVID-19. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
On the WHO website, the status of each country regarding COVID-19 can be found. According to the situation report on 16 April 2020, Israel reported 126 deaths due to COVID-19. The first COVID-19 death in Israel was reported on 20 March 2020. So, it is not true that Israel has zero COVID-19 deaths.
Also, no information regarding the mixture of lemon and baking soda killing SARS-CoV-2 virus was found. On the WHO website, it can be read that ‘while some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of COVID-19, there is no evidence that current medicine can prevent or cure the disease’.
When a similar message went viral with a claim that alkaline foods can kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus, FACTLY has debunked the claim and written a fact-check article, which can be read here.
To sum it up, Israel has reported COVID-19 deaths. Also, the mixture of lemon and baking soda cannot kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
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No evidence to suggest that these camouflaged piglets were placed on the Tigress to cure her depression - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
December 2, 2022
An image of five piglets adorned in tiger-skin type costumes laying on a tigress is being shared on social media claiming that she was given these piglets dressed like cubs in order to cure her depression caused due to the death of her cubs. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Piglets dressed like cubs were given to a mother tiger to cure her depression caused due to the death of her cubs.
Fact: The image shows the Bengal tigress named ‘Saimai’ at Sriracha Tiger Zoo in Thailand. The same image has been viral at least since 2006. Apart from breeding the tigers, this Zoo is a host to special attractions like tiger playing with the camouflaged piglets, dogs and female pig feeding tiger cubs.  This Tiger Zoo has a reputation for creating successful relationships between animals of different species. This act is a part of plan by the Zoo organisers to tame the tigers by getting them accustomed to other animals. There is no evidence to suggest that the camouflaged piglets were given to tigress to cure her depression. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
We ran a reverse image search of the viral photo and came across a Snopes article which debunked the similar claim in 2006. According to this article, the image shows the Bengal tigress named ‘Saimai’ at Sriracha Tiger Zoo in Thailand.
According to Pattaya Mail and Animal welfare institute, Sriracha Tiger Zoo has a reputation for creating successful relationships between animals of different species. ‘Sai mai’ was 2-year-old (in 2003) and as a baby was suckled by a pig until she was 4 months. This democratic start in life allowed her to form a loving relationship with other pigs and even a dog.
Although the Sriracha Tiger Zoo is off the beaten track, it is nonetheless quite a famous zoo, with one of the world’s most successful breeding programs for tigers. But breeding tigers is not its only agenda. Entertaining and fascinating shows bring in the crowds of visitors to this unique zoo. Visitors recently witnessed some bizarre feeding habits of the zoo’s most famous inhabitants. A two-year-old female pig named Benjamaj has taken 4 baby tigers under her care and along with 3 tiny piglets is nursing the tigers as though she were their mother.
Also, according to news reports, this act is a part of plan by the Zoo organisers to tame the tigers by getting them accustomed to other species of animals. If the tigers are tamed well-enough, they may end up in the circus-performances at the Zoo.
To sum it up, no evidence to suggest that the camouflaged piglets were given to the tigress to cure its depression.

created: December 2, 2022


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No evidence to suggest that these Politicians own thousands of crores worth of property - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
March 27, 2023
Update (27 March 2023):
Another video circulating on social media claims to show the assets owned by Chandra Babu Naidu’s grandson, Akhilesh Yadav, Abhishek Singhvi, Narendra Modi, etc. The post further claims that all individuals, except Modi, own hundreds of crores worth of property. Let’s verify the claim through this article.
Narendra Modi:
The election affidavit filed by Narendra Modi during the 2019 Lok Sabha General Elections revealed that he had assets (movable & immovable) worth ₹2,51,36,119 with zero liabilities. Detailed information about his properties can be seen here.
Akhilesh Yadav:
According to the election affidavit filed by Akhilesh Yadav for the 2019 Lok Sabha General Elections, his assets (movable & immovable) were worth ₹37,78,59,166 with ₹28,53,000 in liabilities. Detailed information about his properties can be seen here.
Abhishek Singhvi:
In the election affidavit filed by Abhishek Singhvi for the 2018 Rajya Sabha Elections, he declared assets valued at ₹6,49,80,99,894 (movable & immovable) while disclosing liabilities worth ₹98,30,44,247.
Chandrababu Naidu’s grandson:
Although Chandrababu Naidu does not have a granddaughter, the public declaration of properties in 2020 shows that his grandson has total assets worth ₹19.42 crore.
Published (08 November 2022):
A post disclosing the property details of Mulayam Singh, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Mayawati and Sonia Gandhi is being widely shared claiming each of them owns 8470 Crores, 6250 Crores, 4730 Crores and 40,000 Crores worth of property respectively. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Mulayam Singh, Lalu prasad Yadav, Mayawati and Sonia Gandhi own 8470 Crores, 6250 Crores, 4730 Crores and 40,000 Crores worth of property respectively.
Fact: As per the election affidavits submitted by the candidates, the net worth of the assets owned by Mulayam Singh (2019), Lalu Prasad Yadav (2009), Mayawati (2012) and Sonia Gandhi (2019) is ₹18.35 Crores, ₹3.04 Crores, ₹110.76 Crores, and ₹11.82 Crores respectively. Moreover, there are no credible reports by any reputed organisations that revealed the accurate list of properties owned by above mentioned people. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
Mulayam Singh:
As per the election affidavit filed by Mulayam Singh during 2019 Lok Sabha General Elections, Mulayam Singh and his wife had assets (movable & immovable) worth ₹20,56,04,593 and liabilities of ₹2,20,55,657. Detailed information about his properties can be seen here
Lalu Prasad Yadav:
According to the election affidavit filed by Lalu Prasad Yadav to contest in 2009 Lok Sabha General Elections (his last election), he and his wife owned assets worth ₹3,20,94,746 and liabilities of ₹16,26,689. More information can be seen here.
Mayawati:
As per the election affidavit of 2012 (Rajya Sabha), she has assets worth ₹111.64 crores and liabilities worth ₹87.68 lakhs.
Sonia Gandhi:
In her latest affidavit for the 2019 General elections, Sonia Gandhi declared that she has assets worth ₹11.82 crores without any liabilities. Detailed information can be seen here. Earlier, FACTLY debunked several fake claims corresponding to Sonia Gandhi’s property. They can be seen here
Even though the property details of the candidate disclosed in election affidavits may not reveal the person’s actual assets as politicians are often accused of holding assets in benami names,  we couldn’t find any such report by a credible organisation or agency revealing the hidden wealth of Indian Politicians and businessmen. Also, none of the people mentioned in the post were featured in the list of Richest Indians by Forbes and Fortune India.
To sum it up, no credible source reported the accurate property details of the above-stated Indian Politicians.
Update (10 November 2022):
Another post is being shared claiming that the newly elected Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge owns properties worth more than ₹50,000 crores. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Mallikarjun Kharge owns assets worth more than ₹50,000 crores.
Fact: As per the latest affidavit submitted by Kharge in 2020 for Rajya Sabha elections, he and his wife, along with a dependent own assets worth ₹20.12 crores and liabilities are valued at ₹23.75 Lakhs. Also, there is no credible reports to suggest that Kharge owned ₹50,000 crores of hidden wealth. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE
According to his latest election affidavit of 2020 (Rajya Sabha), Kharge owns a property worth ₹20.12 crores and liabilities are valued at ₹23.75 Lakhs. More details can be seen here.
To sum it up, no evidence to suggest Kharge owned ₹50,000 crores worth of property.


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No evidence to suggest that this list of tips are the recommendations of an International Cancer Conference - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
September 8, 2022
A social media post claiming as the summary of the ‘International Medical Conference on Malignant Diseases’ held in Berlin on 03 August 2022 is being widely shared on social media. Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post
Claim: Summary of the International Medical Conference on Malignant Diseases held in Berlin on 03 August 2022.
Fact: The same post has been circulating on social media since 2017 claiming it to be the summary of different international conferences. However, we couldn’t find any such summary reports from the World Cancer Conference and German Cancer Congress websites matching with the list of alleged health tips in the post. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
We searched the web with relevant keywords and found that the same post has been going viral since 2017. In the post shared on 15 November 2017, it is shared as the summary of ‘conference on malignant neoplasms’. In another post shared in June 2022, there is no mention of the conference date.
We also searched on various search engines whether any cancer conferences were held in Berlin by that name but couldn’t find any. The German Cancer Society and German Cancer Aid conduct various conferences regarding cancer research in Berlin every two years. But we couldn’t find any such list of Dos and Don’ts from their previous conferences as claimed in the viral post. Moreover, the last German Cancer Congress was held on 19-22 February 2020 and next one will take place from 13-16 November 2022.
Also, according to the World Cancer Congress website, they never conducted an event in Berlin. The last ‘World Cancer Congress’ was held in Malaysia on 01-04 October 2018.  And the next event will be held at Geneva, Switzerland on 18-22 October 2022.
We have also checked the summary reports of previous World Cancer Congress but couldn’t find anything similar as claimed in viral post. They can be seen here and here and here
To sum it up, there is no evidence to state that the list of alleged health tips contained in the post are the summary of an International Cancer conference held in Berlin.

created: September 8, 2022


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No evidence to suggest ‘The Simpsons’ predicted the Baltimore bridge collapse - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
March 29, 2024
An image (here, here and here) allegedly from ‘The Simpsons’ is making rounds on social media, claiming that the popular sitcom predicted the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on 26 March 2024. The alleged prediction is attributed to an episode from season 35 of the show. We will fact-check this claim through this article.
Claim: ‘The Simpsons’ predicted the collapse of the Baltimore bridge.
Fact: ‘The Simpsons’ did not predict the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The viral image is AI-generated and not from any episode of the series. Therefore, the claim made in the post is rated False.
To verify the authenticity of the claim, we examined the eighth episode of season 35 of ‘The Simpsons’ on Disney+Hotstar. The Simpsons family trip to Scotland is the storyline of this episode. There isn’t any scene suggesting or portraying the collapse of the Baltimore bridge.
Furthermore, we ran the viral image through Hive, an AI content detection tool. The tool identified the image as being likely generated by AI rather than an actual screengrab from a Simpsons episode.
Additionally, a closer inspection of the characters in the image revealed inconsistencies. Lisa Simpson’s hairstyle varies from her standard eight-spike hair pattern in the show to a ten-spike hair pattern in the viral image.
When the image started attracting attention on social media, Twitter added a community note tag to posts (here and here) containing the image, crediting it as AI-generated.
ANOTHER SIMPSON PREDICTION 😵💫 pic.twitter.com/hN03esq73d
Matt Selman, Showrunner of ‘The Simpsons’, further dispelled the claims (archived post), calling the image fake and unrelated to any episode of the show.
Sadly #TheSimpsons "predictions" are now  meaningless. People so desperately want to believe in the show's "magic powers" (or are just very lazy) that they ignore that obviously fake images of the so-called predictions cannot be traced to any actual episode — like this nonsense: pic.twitter.com/UOfvR1ZN4I
To sum up, the image claiming to be from an episode of ‘The Simpsons’ supposedly predicting the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is AI-generated.


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No evidence to suggest the wearing of magnetic rings aids weight loss - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
February 7, 2023
A Facebook post promoting the product ‘JANSIO Threanic Triple-Spin Ring’ is being shared on social media claiming that wearing the ring would cause substantial weight loss. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: JANSIO Threanic Triple-Spin Ring would help in substantial weight loss.
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that magnetic rings, or similar magnetic devices, aid in weight loss. Also, according to Federal Trade Commission, ‘Nothing you can wear or apply to your skin will cause you to lose weight’. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
The product website claims that the ring is entirely magnetized and the electromagnetic charge released by it will remove blockages in the body thus causing weight reduction. However, according to the Federal Trade Commission(FTC), products worn on the body or applied to the skin do not cause substantial weight loss. According to a cautionary guide released by FTC, several experts suggest that products like rings, patches, creams etc clarified that these products do not help in losing weight.
Also, according to several studies and experts (here, here and here), there is no evidence to suggest that magnetic rings, or similar magnetic devices, aid in weight loss.
To sum it up, there is no evidence to suggest that wearing a magnetized ring will help in substantial weight loss.

created: February 7, 2023


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No Evidence to Support Claims that Drinking Cold Water Immediately After Coming From a Hot Environment Leads to Life-Threatening Situations - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 19, 2023
A social media post has been gaining attention, suggesting that drinking cold water or taking a cold shower immediately after coming in from a hot outdoor environment could lead to significant health problems, including bursting blood vessels and strokes. Let’s check the veracity of the claims made in the post.
Claim: Drinking cold water or bathing with cold water immediately after coming from outside heat will cause health issues like burst of blood vessels and stroke.
Fact: There is no strong evidence to suggest that immediately consuming cold water or bathing with it will cause blood vessels to burst or lead to a stroke. While there may be a minimal risk of experiencing shock due to sudden temperature changes, the primary concern should be maintaining proper hydration, especially during hot weather or after being exposed to high temperatures. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, American Heart Association, and Mayo Clinic all emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, particularly during hot weather, exercise, or exposure to high temperatures. None of them mentions any specific risks associated with the immediate consumption of cold water or showering with cold water after being exposed to heat.
Snopes investigated the claim that drinking cold water or showering with cold water immediately after exposure to heat can cause blood vessels to burst. While they acknowledge a slight chance of adverse effects in specific situations if a person drinks too cold water because the body should adjust the temperature difference, such as going into shock due to an abrupt change in temperature, they emphasize that this is extremely rare and not the norm.
To sum it up, while there may be a small chance of experiencing shock due to sudden temperature changes, the risk is minimal, and the primary concern should be maintaining proper hydration. There is no strong evidence suggesting that immediately consuming cold water or showering with cold water after exposure to heat can cause blood vessels to burst or lead to any other severe health effects.


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No Evidence to Support This Conspiracy Theory: Titanic Was Switched with Olympic - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
March 21, 2023
A video circulating on social media is promoting a conspiracy theory surrounding the sinking of the Titanic. According to the theory, the Titanic ship never sunk and it was actually the HMS Olympic, one of the Titanic’s sister ships, that was deliberately sunk. The theory suggests that the Olympic, which had been damaged in an accident, was returned to the manufacturer for repairs while the Titanic was under construction. To recoup the losses from the accident and claim the insurance, the company allegedly switched the names of the two ships, and the Titanic was then deliberately sunk, resulting in the loss of over 1500 lives. The video claims that the source of these claims was Robin Gardner. Let’s check the veracity of these claims.
Claim: The Titanic ship was switched with the HMS Olympic and deliberately sunk as part of an insurance fraud scheme.
Fact: There is no evidence to support this conspiracy theory. The theory was propagated by British author Robin Gardiner, but it was debunked by many authors and experts, including Steve Hall and Bruce Beveridge. The differences between the Titanic and the Olympic were more than just cosmetic and included many structural differences that would have made it impossible to switch the two ships. The insurance fraud theory also does not hold up to scrutiny. Several documentary films have presented expert evidence to debunk the conspiracy theories surrounding the Titanic disaster. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
Initially, we found that British author Robin Gardiner played a key role in propagating the claims around the Titanic conspiracy theories. In his various books, he suggested that the Titanic did not actually sink but was switched with its damaged sister ship, the Olympic, and then deliberately sunk for insurance money. According to Gardiner’s theory, the White Star Line, which owned both ships, wanted to avoid paying for the expensive repairs on the Olympic, and so swapped it with the Titanic, which had only just been completed. Gardiner claimed that the damage to the Olympic was so severe that it was irreparable, and that the Titanic was modified to make it look like the Olympic. The Titanic was then sent on its maiden voyage and deliberately sunk, with the intention of collecting the insurance money.
However, these claims were debunked by many authors and experts. Steve Hall and Bruce Beveridge co-authored a book titled “Olympic & Titanic: The Truth Behind the Conspiracy.” In the book, they extensively researched the claims made by conspiracy theorists and presented a wealth of evidence to refute them.
They pointed out that the differences between the Titanic and the Olympic were more than just cosmetic and included many structural differences that would have made it impossible to switch the two ships. For example, the Titanic was longer and had a different number of watertight compartments than the Olympic. Additionally, the Titanic had more powerful engines than the Olympic and had a different configuration of its propeller shafts. Hall and Beveridge also provided evidence from contemporary sources such as newspapers and shipbuilding journals to show that the Titanic was indeed the ship that sank in 1912. They presented eyewitness accounts from survivors of the sinking who identified the ship as the Titanic, and they pointed out that the ship’s builders, Harland and Wolff, publicly confirmed that the Titanic was lost.
Furthermore, Hall and Beveridge pointed out that the insurance fraud theory does not hold up to scrutiny. The Titanic was insured for $5 million, while its actual construction cost was $7.5 million. Therefore, even if the White Star Line had intentionally sunk the ship, they would still have suffered a financial loss. Similarly, several documentary films have presented expert evidence to debunk the conspiracy theories surrounding the Titanic disaster. Some of them can be seen here and here.
To sum it up, the evidence gathered from various sources including historical documents, shipbuilding records, and testimonies from experts, researchers, and historians strongly suggests that there is no basis to support the claims that the Titanic was switched with the Olympic and intentionally sunk for insurance fraud. Therefore, the theory remains a baseless and unfounded conspiracy.


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No farm loan waiver up to 2 lakh rupees from December 2020 was announced by the Central Government. - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
December 7, 2020
The link of a YouTube video is being shared on social media with a claim that the Modi government is going to waive off the farm loans up to two lakh rupees from 01 December 2020. Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Modi government to waive off the farm loans up to two lakh rupees from 01 December 2020.
Fact: No such announcement is made by the Central government. Also, the video in the posted link is related to PM Modi’s address at the inauguration of 750 MW Solar Project in Rewa (MP) on 10 July 2020. PM Modi did not mention any such loan waiver in his address. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched if the Central government has made any such announcement, no information was found regarding any such farm loan waiver up to two lakh rupees from 01 December 2020. If any such proposal were announced by the government, all the reputed media agencies would have published about it; but no such news reports were found. Also, the video in the posted link does not mention the farm loan waiver. The video is related to PM Modi’s address at the inauguration of 750 MW Solar Project in Rewa (MP) on 10 July 2020. PM Modi did not mention any such loan waiver in his address. The transcript of his address at the inauguration of 750 MW Rewa Solar Project can be read here.
To sum it up, the Central government did not announce farm loan waiver up to two lakh rupees from December 2020.

created: December 7, 2020


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No, FIFA is not planning to keep Pele's feet in a museum - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
January 5, 2023
A social media post claiming that FIFA would keep the feet of legendary football player Pele in a museum is being shared widely. This came after the demise of Pele on 29 December 2022. Let’s fact-check this claim through his article.
Claim: FIFA will keep the feet of football player Pele in a museum display.
Fact: There are no news reports about such an announcement being made by FIFA. Even their website and the official Twitter handle do not mention any such information or a press release regarding this alleged decision. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
To check the claim’s veracity, we looked for press releases and official announcements on the official website of FIFA and their Twitter handle. This search did not lead us to any relevant evidence. But FIFA posted a few articles mourning the death of the legendary player, which can be read here, here and here. We observed that the graphic in the viral post credited ‘TNT sports Brazil’ as the source of this information. We looked for an article about this alleged decision made by FIFA on their website, but they haven’t posted anything regarding the same.
Further, we looked for news reports about this on popular media outlets. However, none reported such information about FIFA deciding to keep Pele’s feet in a museum. News agency Reuters published a fact-check article on the same claim in which they  said ‘A spokesperson for FIFA told Reuters via email that the claim is completely false.’ Pele’s footprints are preserved in the hall of fame at Maracana stadium in Brazil.
To sum up, FIFA is not planning to keep Pele’s feet in a museum; this news is fake.

created: January 5, 2023


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Former minister A.K.Antony did not buy paintings with government money - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 11, 2023
A social media post accompanying an image of Elizabeth Antony, wife of former Defence Minister A.K. Antony standing alongside a painting is doing rounds on social media platforms. Sharing this picture, social media posts claim that during his tenure, the former Defence Minister A.K. Antony had bought  paintings worth Rs. 28 crores from his wife Elizabeth Antony, using government money. Through this article let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Using Rs. 28 crores of government money, former minister A.K. Antony bought paintings from his wife.
Fact: There are no reports about A.K. Antony purchasing paintings with government money. In the past, when reports surfaced alleging that Airports Authority of India purchased paintings from Antony’s wife, she refuted the claim and shared the details of the purchase received through RTI. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
There are no reports about A.K. Antony purchasing paintings using government money. However, in the past, there were reports alleging that debt ridden Air Authority of India, bought paintings for Rs. 28 crores from Elizabeth Antony, wife of former Minister A.K. Antony.
However, Elizabeth Antony refuted the allegations, and an associate of hers even filed an RTI seeking details of the purchase and transaction involved. Back in 2016, she posted a clarification, sharing the RTI response.
According to the response, AAI had purchased two paintings from Elizabeth Antony’s Navoothan Charitable Foundation by paying a total amount of Rs. 2.5 lakhs, to display at Arrival and Departure Lounges of Trivandrum airport. Further, in this response, AAI had clarified that it made the purchase, based on the powers delegated under AAI DOP
She even refuted the claim earlier in 2012, through a Facebook post stating that ‘the painting exhibition in question was held at India Habitat Center and had a total of 24 art exhibits. The paintings were sold for a cumulative sum of Rs. 16 lakhs.’
Further, back in 2018, speaking to BOOM, Mrs. Antony denied the claim saying ‘Air India has never bought anything from me. Not even a brochure.’
To sum it up, former minister A.K.Antony did not buy paintings using government money.


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No G.O. has been issued declaring holidays to schools and colleges in Telangana from 01 March to 07 May 2021 - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
March 1, 2021
A post is being shared on social media with a claim that the Telangana government has issued an order declaring holidays for all schools and colleges in the State from 01 March 2021 to 07 May 2021 due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases. Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Telangana Government has declared holidays to all schools and colleges from 01 March – 07 May 2021 due to the increasing COVID-19 cases.
Fact: No such G.O. declaring holidays to all schools and colleges in the State from 01 March – 07 May 2021 has been issued by the Telangana Government. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched for the news given in the post, no credible news reports were found. Also, no such G.O. (Government Order) was found to be issued by the Government of Telangana. The posted image is quite different from the original format of the G.O.
Also, when an image with a similar ‘Government’ stamp is shared in the context of Andhra Pradesh, FACTLY has debunked the claim and written a fact-check article, which can be read here. The same ‘Government’ stamp can be found on the Stock images website.
To sum it up, no G.O. has been issued declaring holidays to schools and colleges in Telangana from 01 March to 07 May 2021 due to COVID-19.


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No, Gandhi did not personally receive the allowance, it was allocated to the prison department - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
August 20, 2023
A social media post asserting that a document sourced from the National Archives states that Gandhi used to be granted Rs. 100 monthly allowance by the British government is being widely shared. This allowance supposedly aimed to cover his expenses. The post, which has gained significant traction, insinuates a potential connection between Gandhi and the British authorities as suggested by the shared document. Through this article let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Gandhi used to receive allowance of Rs. 100 monthly by the British government.
Fact: The allowance is allocated for the upkeep of Gandhi, who was held in custody as a state prisoner. This allowance is provided to the prison department rather than directly to Gandhi. Furthermore, this was a prevailing custom in accordance with the prevailing regulations during that period. Numerous other detainees also obtained similar allowances. Notably, Gandhi refused to accept the stipend. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
Gandhi did not receive the allowance directly:
The viral document in question is in fact, a letter authored by G.F.S. Collins, who served as the Secretary to the Home Department of the Government of Bombay, addressed to the Secretary of the Home Department of the Government of India. The letter is available on the India Culture official website.
In the letter, Collins suggests the idea of allocating the approved Rs. 100 allowance for the maintenance of  MK. Gandhi, who was incarcerated as a state prisoner at Yeravda Central Prison. This amount was provided to the prison department, and debited to the Government of India under the head ‘29-Political Central Refugees and State Prisoners- other Refugees and State Prisoners. Further, there is no mention of handing over the amount to Gandhi directly.
It was a general practice:
It is important to highlight that during that period, in accordance with The Bengal State Prisoners Regulation of 1818, it was a customary procedure for the government to provide an allowance to significant state prisoners who were under detention. Given that the viral letter refers to Gandhi as a state prisoner, and the charges are debited on account of the confinement of this prisoner to the Government of India under the head ‘29-Political Central Refugees and State Prisoners- other Refugees and State Prisoners’, it becomes evident that Gandhi received this allowance in accordance with the prevailing law (here).
Several other prisoners received such allowance:
In fact, numerous political prisoners, revolutionaries, and similar individuals received such allowances. However, the quantum of allowance varies and was subjectively determined at the discretion of government officials. Upon a close examination of the letter, there is a reference to the deduction of comparable expenses for a state prisoner from Bengal named Satish Chandra Pakrashi.
One can find petitions submitted by state prisoners from Mandalay jail requesting the provision of an allowance under the 1818 regulation, on the India culture website. This additional evidence reinforces the fact that the allowance granted by the government was not exclusive to Gandhi but was extended to several other individuals as well (here).
Gandhi refused to accept the allowance:
It is worth mentioning that on 10 May 1930, Gandhi communicated from Yeravada Jail to E. E. Doyle, who held the position of Inspector General of Prisons for the Bombay Presidency, expressing that he did not require such a budget for his maintenance while incarcerated.
He went on to write “The Government has suggested Rs. 100 as monthly allowance. I hope I shall need nothing near it. I know that my food is a costly affair. It grieves me, but it has become a physical necessity with me.” This indicates that Gandhi was allocated a monthly allowance of Rs. 100 for his sustenance during his time as a state prisoner at Yeravada Central Prison.
To sum it up, Gandhi did not personally receive the allowance, instead, it was allocated to the prison department.


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No, Government is not implanting microchips into human bodies through COVID-19 vaccine - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
June 21, 2021
A post accompanying a video claiming that the government is planting a microchip into human bodies through the COVID-19 vaccine in order to take them under their control is going viral on social media platforms. Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: The government is implanting microchips into human bodies through COVID-19 vaccine in order to take them under control.
Fact: There is no evidence of the government implanting microchips into human bodies in order to control them. Also, there is no information regarding the government making vaccination mandatory to obtain passport. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
There is no credible evidence of government implanting microchips into human bodies in order to take control of their bodies. Earlier, when a similar claim saying that Bill & Melinda Gates are using the vaccine as a pretext to implant microchips to collect biometric details of people went viral on social media, several media outlets rubbished the claim. These articles can be read here and here.
FACTLY has also debunked the same claim among many other claims related to COVID-19 vaccines.
Further, the video in the post claims that getting vaccinated is mandatory to obtain passport. However, there is no official information from the government’s side or news articles in this regard. In fact, the government recently announced that prior registration on Co-Win will not remain mandatory to get vaccinated.
To sum it up, government is not implanting microchips into human bodies through COVID-19 vaccine.


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No Hindu temple has emerged while demolishing the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 19, 2022
A photo is being shared on social media claiming it is a picture of the famous Virabhadreshwara temple that emerged while demolishing a Mosque in Karnataka’s Raichur. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Picture of the Virabhadreshwara temple that emerged while demolishing a Mosque in Raichur, Karnataka.
Fact: In 2016, as part of a road-widening project, the Raichur district authorities demolished the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur. The Hindu communities in Raichur then alleged that the pillars emerged from the demolition have a resemblance to the sculptural pillars built in Hindu temples. However, the then Raichur District Magistrate clarified that these allegations made against the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur are baseless. The Virabhadreshwara or any other Hindu temple did not emerge while demolishing the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur. Hence, the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
On reverse image search of the photo, it is found that the same photo with a similar claim was circulating on social media at least since 2016. They can be seen here, here, and here. One of the users tweeted this photo claiming that a Hindu temple emerged while demolishing the ‘Ek Minar Masjid’ in Raichur, Karnataka.  The Mosque photo shared in the post matches a photo of the ‘Ek Minar Mosque published on the ‘Trip Advisor website.
When we searched for further details of this religious site using these keywords, we found that the ‘Deccan Chronicle’ had published an article reporting this allegation of a Hindu temple emerging during the demolition of the Ek Minar Mosque in Karnataka. According to the article, the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur was demolished in 2016, as part of a road-widening project. Some Hindu groups living in Raichur then alleged that the pillars that emerged from the demolition have a resemblance to the magnificent sculptural pillars built in Hindu temples. The Raichur Hindu groups reportedly demanded the Karnataka government immediately investigate the history of the Ek Minar Mosque and clarify whether a temple had been built on the site earlier. However, nowhere in the article, it is confirmed that the pillars on the Ek Minar Mosque belong to the Virabhadreshwara or any other Hindu temple. ‘The Hindu’ News Agency has also published an article in 2016, reporting the details of the Ek Minar Mosque demolition in Raichur.
For further clarification, the ‘Alt News’ has contacted the former District Magistrate posted in Raichur when the orders for road-widening were passed in 2016. Speaking to the ‘Alt News’, the former District Magistrate said, “The information that is being shared on social media is untrue. When the demolition happened in Raichur, there were some traditional buildings. Ek Minar, which is a very old structure, was one of the buildings that was demolished for road widening. Such old structures have a variety of carvings, and it cannot be concluded that it was originally a temple from just one pillar. Some groups tried to make this claim, but when they were countered, they did not pursue with the claim”.
To sum it up, no Hindu temple has emerged while demolishing the Ek Minar Mosque in Raichur.


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Hrithik Roshan did not post a tweet suggesting that he voted for the Congress - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 24, 2024
Following the recently concluded fifth phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a social media post alleges that Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan revealed he voted for the Congress party. The post includes a supposed tweet by Hrithik Roshan stating, ‘Mai abhi abhi 6 ungli ko press karke aaya hu.’ This article aims to fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Hrithik Roshan tweeted, hinting that he cast his vote for the Congress party in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Fact: Hrithik Roshan did not post a tweet suggesting that he voted for the Congress. Over the last thirty days, he has only tweeted twice, both on election day. However, out of these two tweets, only one pertains to the election, wherein he urged the public to thoroughly evaluate the candidates before casting their votes. Hence, the claim made in the post is FALSE.
The fifth phase of the ongoing 2024 general elections concluded on 20 May 2024. Several Bollywood actors, including Hrithik Roshan, cast their votes. However, Hrithik did not tweet which party he voted for.
Hrithik Roshan along with his family exercised his voting right in Mumbai. After casting his vote, he spoke to the media, emphasizing the importance of voting wisely (here). However, there are no reports about his vote for Congress. If he had made any such tweets or comments, the media would have covered it, but we could not find any such reports.
On the election day (20 May 2024), he only posted two tweets. One advised the public to vote and study the candidates before voting, while the other wished another actor, Jr. NTR, a happy birthday. Both of these tweets are still visible on his Twitter timeline.
Go vote.
Make sure you have studied the candidates first.
Know who you are voting for. pic.twitter.com/h8EyWTOvPy
An additional examination using Social Blade, a Twitter analytics tool, validated that within the last thirty days, he has only posted two tweets, both occurring on election day (20 May 2024). A cursory review of his Twitter profile supports this finding. Additionally, a thorough search through archived content failed to uncover any such tweet by Hrithik Roshan. Consequently, these findings confirm that the screenshot of the purported tweet is digitally fabricated.
To sum up, Hrithik Roshan did not post a tweet suggesting that he voted for the Congress.


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No huge rock or ‘2020 RK2’ will hit the Earth’s surface on 07 October 2020. - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
October 6, 2020
A post is being shared widely on social media with a claim that NASA has confirmed that a huge rock will hit Earth’s surface on 07 October 2020. Let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: NASA has confirmed that a huge rock will hit Earth’s surface on 07 October 2020.
Fact: No such confirmation has been given by NASA. Also, NASA’s ‘Sentry: Earth Impact Monitoring’ list does not mention any such huge rock hitting the Earth on 07 October 2020. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched about a huge rock hitting the Earth on 07 October 2020, many news articles regarding ‘2020 RK2’ object passing close to the Earth on 07 October 2020 were found. None of the articles mentioned about ‘2020 RK2’ hitting the Earth’s surface. Also, NASA has not mentioned anywhere that a huge rock will hit the Earth’s surface on 07 October 2020. NASA’s ‘Sentry: Earth Impact Monitoring’ list does not mention any such huge rock hitting the Earth on 07 October 2020. For the remaining period in 2020, there is only one asteroid in the list – ‘2018 VP1’. NASA has already clarified – ‘Asteroid 2018VP1 is very small, approx. 6.5 feet, and poses no threat to Earth! It currently has a 0.41% chance of entering our planet’s atmosphere, but if it did, it would disintegrate due to its extremely small size’
Also, on its website, NASA has mentioned – ‘No known asteroid poses a significant risk of impact with Earth over the next 100 years. The highest risk of impact for a known asteroid is a 1 in 714 chance of impact by an asteroid designated 2009 FD in 2185, meaning that the possibility that it could impact then is less than 0.2 per cent.’
While the impact list does not mention about any huge object hitting the Earth on 07 October 2020, NASA’s ‘NEO Earth Close Approaches’ list mentions three objects. The closest one among them to approach Earth is ‘2020 RK2’, about which several news articles have mentioned. It will fly by around 38,26,808 km from the Earth on 07 October 2020.
Further details regarding ‘2020 RK2’ can be found here. The orbital movement of ‘2020 RK2’ and Earth can be seen below:
The ‘European Space Agency (ESA)’ has also mentioned in its October 2020 Newsletter that ‘no known object will come closer than the Moon during the month of October’. The details regarding ‘2020 RK2’ can be also found on the ESA’s website.
To sum it up, no huge rock or ‘2020 RK2’ will hit the Earth’s surface on 07 October 2020. The information on the NASA and ESA websites confirms it.

created: October 6, 2020


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Hyderabad traffic police is not organising any traffic Lok Adalat during Oct 4-7, 2021 - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
September 5, 2021
A post accompanying a news clip which states that Hyderabad traffic police is organising a mega Lok Adalat during October 4-7, through which people can clear their pending traffic challans by paying only 50% of the amount, is being shared widely across all social media platforms. Through this article, let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Hyderabad traffic police is organising a mega Lok Adalat during October 4-7; people can clear their pending traffic challans by paying only 50% of the amount.
Fact: Hyderabad traffic police through their official social media handles clarified that they are not organising any traffic Lok Adalat during October 4-7, 2021. They have rated the viral news clip as fake. The viral news clip is at least five years old. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
Google search yielded the ‘newsmahal’ story which reported about the traffic Lok Adalat. However, this news article dates back to 2017. The viral post is nothing but a screenshot of this news clip. However, a Telugu regional daily carried a similar news recently in its Hyderabad district edition, which could be the source of the viral news and the revival of the old English news clip.
As the news went viral on social media, Hyderabad traffic police through their official social media handles clarified that the viral news about Hyderabad traffic police organising a traffic Lok Adalat is fake. Hyderabad traffic police through a Facebook post shared both the viral English news clip and the Telugu news clip and rated them as fake. Their clarification further warned that ‘a legal action will be initiated against those who post or forward this fake message.’
While there have been instances in the past (2016 & 2017) wherein Hyderabad traffic police organised a Traffic Lok Adalat, through which they offered 50% off on the pending traffic challans, there is no such Lok Adalat presently being organised by Hyderabad traffic police between October 4-7.
News articles which published the clarification of the Hyderabad traffic police regarding the viral news can be read here. Hence, from these, we can infer that an old news clip about traffic Lok Adalat is being shared as latest.
To sum it up, Hyderabad traffic police is not organising any traffic Lok Adalat during Oct 4-7 of 2021.

created: September 5, 2021


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No, ICMR didn't prescribe Ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19, but the UP government did - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
September 10, 2020
Update (APRIL 30, 2021): ICMR in its guidelines released on 22 April 2021, for management of adult COVID-19 patients has recommended the usage of Ivermectin (200 mcg/kg once a day for 3 days) for patients with mild /asymptomatic disease in home isolation.  Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has also mentioned the usage of Tab Ivermectin in its revised guidelines for Home Isolation of mild /asymptomatic COVID-19 cases. Ivermectin also finds a mention in FAQs on COVID-19 from AIIMS e-ICUs.
A post claiming that ICMR in its guidelines specified the dosage and use of Ivermectin for both prevention as well as treatment of COVID is doing rounds on social media. Through this article lets fact-check the claim made in the post.
ICMR in its guidelines specified the dosage and use of Ivermectin for both prevention as well as treatment of COVID-19.
Fact: ICMR did not recommend to use Ivermectin in treatment of COVID-19. However, the UP government circular dated 06 August 2020 specified the dosage and use of Ivermectin for both prevention as well as treatment of COVID-19 in UP. The speifications regarding the dosage and usage of the drug in both the UP government circular and in the post are similar. The UP government’s circular is being attributed to ICMR. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
When we searched on the ICMR website for any such advisory, we did not find any advising the usage of Ivermectin in COVID-19 treatment. However, we found a Uttar Pradesh government circular dated 06 August 2020 which specified the dosage and use of Ivermectin for both prevention as well as treatment of COVID-19 in the state of UP. However, nowhere in this circular, it is mentioned that ICMR prescribed this drug in the treatment of COVID-19. Also, the specifications regarding the dosage and usage of the drug in both the UP government circular and in the post are similar. With this, we can say that ICMR did not prescribe the usage of Ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19 and UP government’s circular is falsely being attributed to ICMR.
We could not find any news reports regarding the ICMR prescription of Ivermectin in treatment of COVID-19. Also, in the news articles which reported the UP government’s decision to use Ivermectin in treatment of COVID-19, it is nowhere mentioned that ICMR prescribed this drug in the treatment of COVID-19. These news articles can be read here and here. However, ICMR is investigating Ivermectin & Doxycycline as a potential treatment for Covid-19.
Uttar Pradesh government recommends tablet 'Ivermectin' for prophylaxis in contacts and in health care workers and for treatment of asymptomatic to mild symptomatic #COVID19 patients. pic.twitter.com/XEp75AIRrc
To sum it up, ICMR did not prescribe the use of Ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19. However, the UP government advised its health officials to use Ivermectin in treatment of COVID-19.

created: September 10, 2020


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In his memoir detailing Indira Gandhi's visit to Babur's tomb, Natwar Singh did not attribute these statements to her - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
January 18, 2024
A widely circulated social media post alleges to recount an anecdote about Indira Gandhi from former Foreign Minister Natwar Singh’s book titled ‘One Life is Not Enough.’ According to the post, Natwar Singh wrote in his book that while at Babar’s grave in Afghanistan, Indira Gandhi asserted that ‘they were his heirs, and the country was under their control.’ In this article, we will fact-check the claim presented in the post.
Claim: At Babar’s grave in Afghanistan, Indira Gandhi asserted that ‘they were his heirs, and the country was under their control’ – Natwar Singh in his book titled ‘One Life is Not Enough’
Fact: Natwar Singh in his memoir ‘One Life Is Not Enough’ did mention about Indira Gandhi paying obeisance to Babur’s grave. Nevertheless, while recounting the incident, Natwar Singh did not ascribe the viral statements to Mrs. Gandhi. Hence, the claim made in the post is FALSE.
‘One Life Is Not Enough’ is the autobiography of K. Natwar Singh, a former Minister of External Affairs, and a prominent Indian National Congress politician. In this memoir, Natwar Singh discusses Indira Gandhi’s visit to Kabul in August 1969.
Recalling an incident from the visit, Natwar Singh noted that Mrs. Gandhi paid obeisance to  Babur’s grave. Nevertheless, while recounting the incident, Natwar Singh did not ascribe any comments to Mrs. Gandhi that align with the viral claim.
“She stood at the grave with her head slightly lowered and I behind her. She said to me, ‘I have had my brush with history.’ I told her I had had two. ‘What do you mean?’ she asked. I said that paying homage to Babur in the company of the Empress of India was a great honor”, wrote Natwar Singh.
Furthermore, in contrast to the viral claim, the book specifies that Indira Gandhi visited Babur’s tomb during the daytime, and the visit was not deliberate. Additionally, there are no credible reports indicating that Natwar Singh attributed the viral statements to Indira Gandhi in any of his speeches. There is also no evidence to conclude that he said so in any of his other books. Had Natwar Singh ascribed these comments to Mrs. Gandhi, the media would have reported it. Furthermore, we could not find any reports stating that Indira Gandhi asserted she was a heir of Babur.
To sum it up, in his memoir detailing her visit to Babur’s tomb, Natwar Singh did not attribute these statements to Indira Gandhi.

created: January 18, 2024


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No, INA General Shah Nawaz Khan did not betray Subash Chandra Bose - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
February 6, 2023
A social media post which levels multiple allegations against INA General Shah Nawaz Khan is being widely circulated. These viral claims allege that General Shah Nawaz Khan betrayed Azad Hind Fauz/Subash Chandra Bose and fled to Pakistan. Further, the post establishes that Bollywood actor Shar Rukh Khan is the grandson of Shah Nawaz Khan. Through this article, let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Major General Shah Nawaz Khan betrayed Azad Hind Fauz/Subash Chandra Bose and fled to Pakistan.
Fact: Shah Nawaz Khan served the INA under Subash Chandra Bose and when the INA surrendered to the British Army, he was one among the three, who faced the trial, famously called Red Fort trial. He was charged for waging war against the King and causing murder & abetment of murder of five sepoys who were caught deserting the INA. There are no reports about him betraying Subash Chandra Bose. Moreover, at the time of partition, he came back from Pakistan to live in India. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
The viral posts levels multiple allegations about Major General Shah Nawaz Khan and his relationship with Shah Rukh Khan & ISI chief. Let’s look into each of these claims in detail below.
Did Shah Nawaz Khan betray Bose?
Shah Nawaz was born in undivided India in Rawalpindi district in 1914. He joined the British Army in 1935 and fought under the British army in Singapore, against Japan. Eventually, Japan won the battle, and 40,000 Indians were taken into prison. Shah Nawaz Khan was one among them. He later met Subash Chandra Bose in Singapore in 1943, and influenced by him, he joined the INA (here).
According to this report, Shah Nawaz led the INA troops into North-Eastern India, taking control of Kohima and Imphal, which were subsequently held by the INA under Japanese authority for a while. Later, the INA surrendered to the British army and in 1945, Shah Nawaz Khan faced a trail along with Prem Sahgal & Gurbaksh Dhillon, which is famously known as ‘Red fort trial’.
According to the archives of Hindustan Times, ‘the prosecution charged the three I.N.A. officers, Captains Shah Nawaz and Sahgal and Lt Dhillon, with waging war against the King and causing murder and abetment of murder of five sepoys who were caught deserting the I.N.A. The prosecution produced documents showing that the three officers were in the Indian army, that while prisoners of war they joined the Indian national army and as its officers waged war against the king by invading India and that they ordered execution of five sepoys.’
Thus, from the above news report, it is evident that Shah Nawaz was prosecuted for waging war against the British by taking part in INA. Further, there are no reports or documents stating Shah Nawaz betrayed Subash Chandra Bose as claimed in the viral post.
Shah Nawaz left for Pakistan after partition?
Contrary to the viral claim, at the time of partition, Shah Nawaz came back to live in India. Though his entire family remained in Pakistan, he chose to live in India, along with one of his sons (here & here). He eventually joined the Congress party and began his political career. In 1952, he won the first Lok Sabha election from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. And over the years he held many portfolios, including the Parliamentary Secretary position.
Shah Nawaz’s connection with Shah Rukh Khan:
Shah Rukh Khan’s grandfather, Jan Muhammad was from Afghanistan while his maternal grandfather, Iftikhar Ahmed, was from Mangalore and he served in Mangalore as the chief engineer of the port.
‘According to Shah Rukh Khan, his mother, Lateef Fatima, was the adopted daughter of Major General Shah Nawaz Khan who served in the Indian National Army’, reported the Yale University website.
This news report explained how Shahnawaz Khan met Shah Rukh Khan’s mother for the first time. As reported by the article ‘in 1940’s Shah Rukh’s Fatima met with a road accident in New Delhi while travelling with her parents and sister. Gen Khan happened to be around and took her and the family to hospital. That is how a bond formed between the families. She was a pretty and warm person. Gen Khan was known to go out of his way to help people. He considered Fatima his own daughter.’
Pakistan’s ISI Chief is the nephew of Shah Nawaz Khan:
In 2012, General Zaheerul Islam was appointed as the Pakistan’s ISI chief. According to the news reports, he was the nephew of INA General Shah Nawaz Khan and thus shares a tenuous link with Shah Rukh Khan (here & here).
Speaking to PTI, leading Pakistani defense analyst Ikram Sehgal stated that ‘Zaheerul Islam’s father served as a brigadier in the Pakistan Army and Shah Nawaz Khan, who was a major general in the Indian National Army led by Subhas Chandra Bose, was his uncle’.
To sum it up, INA General Shah Nawaz Khan did not betray Subash Chandra Bose.
Update (01 March 2023): In this video we could hear Shah Rukh Khan himself explaining about his family members legacy and how he is related to General Shah Nawaz Khan. From this, it is clearly evident that General Khan is not Shah Rukh’s paternal grandfather.

created: February 6, 2023


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No, India was not the only place where diamonds were found until the late 20th century - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
July 13, 2022
A social media post which claims that ‘until 1986, India was the only official place where diamonds were found’, is being widely circulated across platforms. Through this article let’s fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: ‘Until 1986, India was the only official place where diamonds were found’.
Fact: India is believed to be the only producer of diamonds till 17 century and dominant producer till the 18 century. However, following the depletion of diamond reserves in India and the discovery of diamonds in Brazil (early 1700s) and African countries (late 1800s), the prominence of India in diamond production decreased. Later, African countries dominated the diamond market from late 19 century. By late 20 century, India lost its prominence in rough diamonds production. Hence the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
India is believed to be the first country where diamonds were found and traded. Some historians estimate that India was trading in diamonds as early as the 4th century BC. However, neither did India dominate the diamond trade nor is the only place where diamonds were found up until the late 20 century as claimed in the viral post.
It is true that until 17th century, India was thought to be the only producer of diamonds and dominant producer till the 18 century (here & here). However, following the depletion of diamond reserves in India and the discovery of diamonds in Brazil (early 1700s) and African countries (late 1800s), the prominence of India in diamond production decreased. Diamonds were also explored in mid-19 century in Australia.
According to the Gemological Institute of America, India was the main global supplier of diamonds prior to the discovery of diamonds in Brazil in early 1700s. Brazil remained as the main source of diamonds for about next 150 years (here & here).
Later, the story of the modern diamond market began on the African continent, with the 1866 discovery of diamonds in Kimberley, South Africa. At the end of the 1970s, the world’s most important rough diamond producers were South Africa, Zaire (now renamed the Democratic Republic of Congo), and the former Soviet Union. And by 1990, ninety percent of the worlds rough diamonds were produced from South African mines.
As far as India is concerned, according to a report by the Geological survey of India, in 1947, production of diamond was solely from Panna district (M.P.) with just 1,284 carats. This trend continued till 1967. The status of diamond production in India over the years can be viewed here. All these establish that diamonds were discovered in many parts of the world and India is not the only prominent producer of diamonds by the late 20th century.
To sum it up, India was not the only place where diamonds were found until the late 20 century.


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No, Indian forces did not kill 95,238 Kashmiris since January 1989 - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
October 3, 2019
A post with an article link is being shared widely on social media with a claim that Indian forces killed 95,238 Kashmiris since January 1989. Let’s try to analyze the claim made in the post.
Indian forces killed 95,238 Kashmiris since 1989.
Fact: According to the Annual Report 2018-19 of Ministry of Home Affairs, 14024 Civilians and 5273 Security Force (SF) personnel have lost their lives between 1990 and 2019. Also, on the SATP (South Asia Terrorism Portal) website, it can be found that 45,298 people (14,125 civilians, 5,236 SF personnel, and 25,715 terrorists) died in Jammu and Kashmir due to terrorism-related activities between 1988 and 2018. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When searched about the fatalities in Jammu and Kashmir in the last thirty years, year-wise data on the number of people killed in the terrorism-related activities can be found on the SATP (South Asia Terrorism Portal) website. According to the numbers on that website, it was found that 45,298 people (14,125 civilians, 5,236 SF personnel, and 25,715 terrorists) died in Jammu and Kashmir due to terrorist-related activities between 1988 and 2018.
Also, in the Annual Report (2018-19) of Ministry of Home Affairs, it can be found that ‘since the advent of militancy in J&K (in 1990), 14024 Civilians and 5273 Security Force (SF) personnel have lost their lives (up to 31.03.2019).’ These numbers are far less than the numbers given in the post.
In the article given in the post, it was given that the numbers were taken from a report. When searched for that report, it was found that the numbers were given by a website called Kashmir Media Service (a Pakistan based website). FACTLY has written to Kashmir Media Service asking about the source for their numbers and the methodology followed in collecting those numbers. This article will be updated when we receive a response.
To sum it up, Indian forces did not kill 95,238 Kashmiris since January 1989.
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created: October 3, 2019


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No Indian Millionaire showered $100,000 to celebrate Modi's victory in New York - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 24, 2019
A video is being shared on Facebook after the victory of BJP in the 2019 General Elections in India, which claims that an Indian millionaire showered  $100,000 to celebrate Modi’s victory. Let’s check the authenticity of the claim being made.
$100,000 given away in New York to celebrate Modi victory.
Fact: This video is published by a music producer, Joe Kush even before the completion of final phase of 2019 General Election. Hence the claim made in the post is False.
When searched Google for ’47 Strret New York Money Shower’ the results show a similar video uploaded by SEVEN50 on 15th May, 2019, even before the final phase of the 2019 general elections. When searched for ‘The God Joe Kush’, you can find his Instagram profile where he describes himself as a Music Producer and Video Engineer. You can watch the same video in his Instagram account form a different angle and also similar video of his showering money from Detroit.
Finally, a music producer’s money shower video in New York is shared as millionaire showering  $100,000 to celebrate Modi victory.
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No, Indian Railways is not deducting around 20 rupees on every cancelled ticket - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
April 16, 2020
A message is being shared widely on social media with a claim that Indian Railways has cancelled around 39 lakh tickets and are deducting around 20 rupees on every ticket. Let’s try to analyze the claim made in the post.
Indian Railways is deducting around 20 rupees on every cancelled ticket.
Fact: No, there is no deduction of around 20 rupees on every cancelled ticket. In a statement, Indian Railways has said that ‘Convenience fee is not refunded’. Convenience fee is charged on Railways e-tickets booked through IRCTC website. Hence, the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
Indian Railways has cancelled all the passenger train services till 03 May 2020 and started giving full refunds for all the cancelled tickets.
Passenger train services cancelled till 3rd May 2020
All ticket counters will remain closed
Advance online ticket booking stopped completely
Online cancellation facility will remain functional
Full refund for all cancelled tickets#IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/MQ8ogodzrH pic.twitter.com/5K0dt4L3e7
IRCTC has uploaded a document on its website to clear the doubts regarding the cancellation and refunds. It advises users ‘not to cancel their e-tickets as it will be automatically cancelled. If user has cancelled any such ticket and have got partial refund, IRCTC will process rest refund amount into user’s account through an automated process.’
While it is refunding the full ticket amount, it is not refunding the full deducted amount on all the tickets. In a statement, the railways explained that, “When train is cancelled, the passenger is refunded full fare. Convenience fee is not refunded which are nominal to an individual and used for day-to-day maintenance and upgradation of the ticketing facility“. Convenience fee is charged on Railways e-tickets booked through IRCTC website. So, the deduction is not made on all the tickets. Tickets booked at the counter could get a full refund.
Also, Indian Railways have cancelled a total of around 94 lakh ticket bookings (55 lakh ticket bookings made for travel between March 22 and April 14 and 39 lakh bookings made for travel between April 15 and May 3).
To sum it up, Indian Railways is not deducting around 20 rupees on every cancelled ticket.
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No information to confirm that Shahrukh Khan is making a film based on the life story of 'Tippu Sultan' - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
May 7, 2020
A post is being shared on social media saying that Shahrukh Khan is acting in a film based on the biography of Tippu Sultan and the film should be boycotted. But FACTLY has found no information to confirm that Shahrukh Khan is acting in a film based on the life story of Tippu Sultan. Also, the photo of Shahrukh Khan as Tippu Sultan in the post can be seen in a fan-made trailer (archive). At the beginning of the trailer, it is explained that the trailer was made for entertainment purposes only and it was made based on editing several video clips available on YouTube.
Sources:
Claim – Facebook post (archived)
Fact –
1. YouTube video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6qDdr-xKA4 (archive)
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No Internet Ban Imposed by the French Government at Present, Viral Letter Proven False - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
July 4, 2023
In light of the recent unrest in France stemming from the tragic death of a teenager at the hands of a police officer, a purported press release has emerged on social media alleging that the French Police & Ministry of Interior have announced a partial ban on internet access starting from 03 July 2023. The letter claims that this decision was made to curb the misuse of social media platforms for coordinating illegal activities that incite violence. Let’s verify the authenticity of the claim made in this post.
Claim: French Ministry of Interior, in a press release, has announced a partial ban on internet access starting from 03 July 2023 to curb the misuse of social media platforms for coordinating illegal activities that incite violence.
Fact: The French Ministry of Interior has issued a statement refuting the validity of the letter, declaring it to be false. They affirm that the French Government has not taken any steps to enforce an internet ban regarding this matter. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
Through an internet search using appropriate keywords, we discovered the official statement released by the Ministry of Interior on 02 July 2023 regarding this issue. The statement explicitly denounces the authenticity of the letter, categorizing it as false, and affirms that the French Government has not made any decisions to impose an internet ban in relation to this matter.
#ViolencesUrbaines | Attention aux #FakeNews
📃Un communiqué de presse de la @PoliceNationale annoncerait des restrictions temporaires à l’accès internet dans certains quartiers.
❌Ce document est un FAUX : aucune décision n’a été prise en ce sens. pic.twitter.com/LQYPKxp0KO
Additionally, we also came across a corresponding statement issued by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on 03 July, which categorically dismisses the viral letter as false.
#UrbanViolence | Beware of #FakeNews
📃 A “press release” from the French national police force @PoliceNationale has claimed that temporary restrictions have been imposed on Internet access in certain neighbourhoods.
❌ This document is FALSE: no such decision has been taken. pic.twitter.com/IyvFK3bN1z
Furthermore, both local media sources and internet shutdown trackers have reported no instances of internet shutdowns being implemented in France at present.
To sum it up, the circulating letter asserting that the French Government has implemented an internet ban in the country is fraudulent. No official decision of this nature has been made thus far.


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No, IPS Officer Roopa didn’t decline an award from the Modi government - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
June 12, 2019
On Facebook, there are numerous posts with the photo of IPS Officer Roopa Yadav claiming that she has refused to take an award from the Modi government because her conscience wouldn’t accept to take an award from a party whose newly elected MP has made denigrating remarks against martyr Hemant Karkare, the winner of the highest award for bravery. Let’s try to check the authenticity of the claim made in the post.
IPS Officer Roopa Yadav refused to take an award from the Modi government as one of its MP has insulted martyr Hemant Karkare
Fact: IPS Officer D Roopa Moudgil herself has clarified that there is no such award to cops from the government. She even stated that picture used in the post is hers but the surname mentioned in it is incorrect. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When the image in the post is run through Google Reverse Image Search technique, it was found to be that of ‘D Roopa Moudgil’, Inspector-General of Police in Railways. When searched for any information of her turning down the award from Modi government, a tweet from her Twitter account is found. In that tweet, she has written “firstly there’s no such award for cops. We get President’s Police Medal. I have already got President’s Police medal for meritorious service. Pic is mine. But surname mentioned is incorrect”. In the Facebook posts with her pic, the name was mentioned as Roopa Yadav but her actual name is D Roopa Moudgil.
Clarifying this– firstly there’s no such award for cops. We get President’s Police Medal. I have already got President’s Police medal for meritorious service. Pic is mine. But surname mentioned is incorrect. https://t.co/RhyNMNLQLv
She has received President’s Medal for her meritorious service in 2017.
Earlier, Roopa Moudgil has refused to accept the ‘Namma Bengaluru Award’ from Namma Bengaluru Foundation as it carries heavy cash reward.
To summarize, IPS Officer Roopa didn’t decline an award from the Modi government.
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No, Israel did not start 10G testing in Gaza - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
June 18, 2021
A post is being widely shared on social media claiming that under the new Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett, Israel had started testing 10G in Gaza. Let us fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Israel started 10G testing in Gaza.
Fact: The tenth-generation technology (10G) has not been developed or researched yet as even sixth-generation technology (6G) is not yet a functioning technology and is only in the early research phase. On 29 September 2020, 5G (Fifth-generation network) had begun operating in Israel and there are suggestions about making a national policy on 6G. Hence, the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched for news articles about 10G and Israel, we did not find any articles about it. According to this article, on 29 September 2020, the frequencies tender for the fifth-generation network (5G) in Israel was closed. The Ministry of Communications distributed frequency licenses to the cellular providers and thus announced that the 5G network had begun operating in Israel. The United States and China have already begun working on the development of sixth-generation communication infrastructures (6G). In addition to the US and China, countries such as Finland, South Korea, and Japan have begun promoting preliminary research and development of 6G applications. This article suggests that Israel must formulate a national policy on 6G.
According to this article, despite its vibrant tech sector, Israel has lagged countries such as Switzerland, South Korea, Britain, and Spain in rolling out 5G services.
When we searched for ongoing research on any new communication system with new features and introducing new technologies, we found a CNN news article. According to this article, while commercial cell phone providers and equipment vendors are working feverishly to build out 5G, and as the public eagerly awaits its rollout, researchers around the world are at work producing the wireless world’s next generation: 6G. According to this article, 6G is not yet a functioning technology and is instead in the early research phase. The final standards that will define what a 6G connection is will probably be down to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The ITU recently nailed down the standards for 5G (which it refers to as IMT-2020) after more than 8 years of work and is expected to start a similar process for 6G soon. As per reports, countries like China and, European Union have already started funding 6G research. These reports can be read here and here.
To sum it up, no, Israel did not start 10G testing in Gaza, even the sixth-generation technology (6G) is not yet functional and is only in the early research phase


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No, Israel hasn’t advised India to print 'KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA' on currency notes - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
June 15, 2021
A post is being shared on social media claiming that Israel had recently advised India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on every Indian currency note. This post claims that Israel had suggested this idea to stop Pakistan from printing fake Indian currency notes. Let’s verify the claim made in the post.
Claim: Israel advised India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on every Indian currency note.
Fact: In August 2017, Israel announced that it will never support Pakistan on the issue of Kashmir. But, Israel has not given any such advice to India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on currency notes. Hence the claim made in the post is FALSE.
When we searched to check whether Israeli officials had made any such statement recently on Kashmir, we could not find any news report about Israel’s advice to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on Indian currency notes. If Israel had advised India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on currency notes, most media outlets would have published articles reporting that information. But, we could not find any such report on the internet.
In August 2017, Israeli officials had made a press statement that Israel will never support Pakistan on the issue of Kashmir. Israel had endorsed the Indian Government’s position on Kashmir and mentioned Kashmir as an integral part of India. But, Israel had not given any such advice to India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on currency notes.
To sum it up, Israel hasn’t advised India to print “KASHMIR BELONGS TO INDIA” on currency notes.


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No, Israel hasn’t chosen to avoid 5G technology. It is fake news - FACTLY
Sai Krishna Muthyanolla
July 8, 2019
“Well surprise, surprise! Despite Israel being intimately involved with the creation of 5G technologies, they have chosen to avoid it like the plague” claims a Facebook post. Let’s to analyze to what extent the claim made in the post is true.
Israel has chosen to avoid the launch of 5G technology in its country.
Fact: Israel government is set to launch a long-awaited tender for fifth generation (5G) mobile network in their country this month (July-2019). So, the claim made in the post is FALSE.
A quick Google Search with keywords “Israel 5g launch”, results in a “Reuters” article with the title “Israel set to launch long-awaited 5G tender this month”. In the article published on July 2, 2019, it was reported that an Israel government spokesperson has said that their country is likely to launch a long-awaited tender for the fifth generation (5G) mobile networks within two weeks. Israel’s Communications Ministry had said late last year that it hoped to allocate frequencies for 5G technology by the end of 2019 and launch it commercially between 2020 and 2023. The ministry has said that 5G is necessary to develop health, agriculture and education, as well as smart cities and self-driving cars.
To conclude, Israel hasn’t chosen to avoid the launch of 5G technology in its country. It is fake news.
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