Is the Claim of an IAF Jet Being Shot Down and Its Pilot Killed True?
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Synopsis
The Indian government has debunked a viral social media claim that an IAF MiG-29 UPG was shot down and its pilot killed, emphasizing the importance of verifying information, especially regarding national security.
Key Takeaways
- The claim of an IAF jet being shot down is false.
- The pilot is safe and on active duty.
- Spreading false information can have serious consequences.
- Verify information before sharing.
- This misinformation is linked to a sensitive national security operation.
New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) The Central government has firmly rejected a viral claim circulating on social media that an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 UPG fighter jet was shot down and its pilot was killed on May 7. The PIB Fact Check unit has labeled this assertion as false and misleading, stating that the pilot in question remains safe, on duty, and actively deployed.
"A post gaining traction on social media alleges that an IAF MiG-29 UPG was taken down, resulting in the pilot's death. This assertion is untrue. The @IAF_MCC pilot is safe, on duty, and currently operational," the official PIB Fact Check account stated in a message on X.
This fabricated claim seems to be associated with Operation Sindoor, a counter-terror initiative launched following the devastating terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir's Pahalgam, which tragically resulted in the loss of 26 civilian lives.
The misleading information suggests that on May 7, a MiG-29 UPG was shot down by a Pakistan Air Force JF-17C over Ramban in Jammu & Kashmir, leading to the demise of Squadron Leader Keshav Yadav.
The deceptive post claims: "On 7 May 2025, the #IndianAirForce (#IAF) MiG-29 UPG was shot down by a #PakistanAirForce JF-17C using a PL-15 LRAAM over Ramban, Jammu & Kashmir, piloted by Sqn. Ldr. Keshav Yadav (IAF No. 32394), who was injured and died on 22 May 2025 at Udhampur Military Hospital, Jammu & Kashmir. #IndiaPakistanWar #IndiaPakistanWar2025 #JF17 #MIG29"
The government has categorically dismissed the claim, stating that no such event occurred on May 7 or at any other time.
“The assertion is entirely fabricated. No IAF aircraft has been downed, and the mentioned pilot is alive and actively serving,” the PIB Fact Check statement clarified.
Officials have called on the public to avoid disseminating unverified information and cautioned that spreading false news, particularly regarding national security, can have dire repercussions.
Point of View
I firmly believe in the necessity of accurate reporting, especially on matters concerning national security. The dissemination of false claims can undermine trust and safety within our communities. We must prioritize verified information and support the integrity of our armed forces. Together, we can combat misinformation and uphold national pride.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the claim about the IAF jet being shot down true?
No, the Central government has confirmed that the claim is false and the pilot is safe.
What did the PIB Fact Check say?
The PIB Fact Check unit labeled the claim as misleading and clarified that no such incident occurred.
What operation is the fake news linked to?
The misinformation appears to be linked to Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to a terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir.
Why is it important not to share unverified information?
Sharing unverified information can have serious implications, especially regarding national security.
What should I do if I encounter fake news?
It's essential to fact-check and verify information before sharing, especially on social media.
