- By Shivangi Sharma
- Sun, 11 May 2025 07:21 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In the midst of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, several misleading claims have gone viral on social media. Among them are reports suggesting that Pakistan has shot down an Indian S-400 air defence system and captured a female Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot. The Indian government has firmly debunked these claims, urging the public not to fall prey to misinformation.
Another one of the most widely circulated false claims involved Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, an officer of the Indian Air Force. Viral posts across social media platforms alleged that she had been captured by Pakistan during cross-border hostilities. However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB)’s Fact Check unit took to social media to clarify the situation.
🚨 S-400 Destroyed by Pakistan? Here's the Truth!
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025
Posts circulating on social media claim that Pakistan has destroyed an Indian S-400 air defence system.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This claim is FAKE.
❌ Reports of destruction or any damage to an S-400 system are baseless.… pic.twitter.com/wPLKQSBAqe
“Pro-Pakistan social media handles claim that an Indian Female Air Force pilot, Squadron Leader Shivani Singh, has been captured in Pakistan. This claim is FAKE,” PIB Fact Check posted on X. The government has confirmed that no IAF personnel, male or female, are in Pakistani custody.
Viral claim about Indian female Air Force pilot captured by Pakistan🚨#PIBFactCheck
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025
❌ FAKE NEWS!
✅ The image being circulated is from June 2023 and thus OLD!
🔗https://t.co/eZdCZMhKLN
🔎Misinformation is being spread by pro-Pakistan handles. Verify before you share. Don't… pic.twitter.com/P9GsmxSmyU
No S-400 System Damaged Or Destroyed
Another unfounded allegation was that Pakistan had successfully targeted and destroyed India’s S-400 Triumf air defence system, which is considered one of the most advanced in the world. This claim also gained traction across messaging apps and social media channels. In response, PIB Fact Check stated,“Reports of destruction or any damage to an S-400 system are baseless.” There has been no official confirmation or credible evidence supporting any such incident involving the S-400.
Government Urges Vigilance Against Misinformation
With fake news gaining traction in times of conflict, the Indian government has advised the public to remain cautious and verify any information they come across online. The PIB Fact Check team has become increasingly active in countering falsehoods related to national security. According to PIB, citizens are urged to rely on verified government channels and reputable news outlets for updates, especially during periods of heightened geopolitical tension.