Fact check: Did Pakistan crash 70% of India’s power grid? Here’s the truth

New Delhi: The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has categorically denied widespread social media rumours claiming that a cyberattack originating from Pakistan has crippled 70% of India's electricity grid. The agency labelled the viral posts as misinformation and urged users to remain cautious while engaging with unverified online content.

In a post shared on Saturday, the PIB’s fact-checking unit wrote, "Social media posts are asserting that a cyber attack by #Pakistan has caused 70% of India's electricity grid to become dysfunctional." The post added, "This claim is FAKE. Please remain vigilant and do not fall for panic-inducing misinformation."

The false claims come in the wake of rising hostilities between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. In response to the provocation, India launched precision strikes targeting terror camps across the border, escalating tensions further.

Since then, several Pakistani social media accounts have been observed spreading unverified videos and misleading narratives to incite panic. According to officials, the PIB’s Fact Check Unit reviewed a series of such videos between Wednesday night and early Thursday.

Taking note of the situation, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) also issued a public alert, asking internet users to practice responsible digital behaviour. The advisory emphasised the importance of online vigilance during times of national tension.

“Critical Online Safety Alert always follow cybersecurity precautions. Stay cautious while online—don’t fall for traps or misinformation. Be patriotic, stay vigilant, stay safe. #Digitalindia #OperationSindoor," read the statement issued by MeitY.