Fact Check: PIB Exposes Pakistan’s Doctored Footage

Claim:

Pakistan’s military used Indian news clips as “proof” that Indian media admitted the destruction of Indian airbases during recent military escalation.

Verdict:

False – The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit confirmed that the video used by Pakistan was selectively edited. The full footage actually shows Indian news channels reporting on Pakistani airfield damage, not Indian.

What Is Being Claimed?

A video clip shown during a media briefing by Pakistan’s military (DG ISPR) claims Indian news outlets acknowledged that Pakistan destroyed Indian airbases during recent hostilities. The clip was used to support Pakistan’s narrative in the ongoing conflict.

This video quickly went viral on Pakistani social media platforms, with users citing it as “proof” that India suffered heavy losses.

What We Found:

1. Video Was Doctored

The PIB Fact Check unit analyzed the viral clip and confirmed that it was edited. The portion shown by Pakistan was removed from context. The full version of the footage clearly reports Indian strikes on a Pakistani airfield, not the other way around.

2. PIB Refutes the Claim

The Government of India’s official fact-check handle (@PIBFactCheck) posted:

“A video being shared by Pakistani sources claims Indian news media confirmed destruction of Indian airbases. This is false and misleading. The clip has been doctored. The original video refers to destruction of a Pakistani base.”

3. Pakistan’s Disinformation Pattern

This is not the first time Pakistan has used altered visuals or quotes to mislead its domestic and international audience. Indian authorities have repeatedly urged the public to be vigilant and not fall for such propaganda.

Conclusion:

The viral video used by Pakistan’s DG ISPR to claim Indian airbases were destroyed is false and doctored. The original Indian news footage was about Pakistani losses. PIB has urged the public to report any similar misleading content, especially in sensitive situations involving national security.