What Are the Details of Operation Sindoor and the Blocking of 1,400 Fake URLs?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Indian government has initiated 'Operation Sindoor,' leading to the blocking of over 1,400 URLs. This action aims to combat the spread of misinformation and anti-India narratives. Discover the details of this operation, its implications for national security, and how the government is countering foreign propaganda.
Key Takeaways
- Operation Sindoor targets misinformation.
- Over 1,400 URLs have been blocked.
- Content from Pakistan-based accounts is a primary focus.
- Real-time monitoring by the Fact Check Unit.
- Emphasis on national security and public order.
New Delhi, July 30 (NationPress) The government has taken action to block over 1,400 URLs on digital platforms during 'Operation Sindoor', citing that their content was laden with false, misleading, and anti-India narratives. This included communally sensitive information primarily sourced from Pakistan-based social media accounts, as well as content inciting violence against the Indian Armed Forces, as revealed by the Parliament on Wednesday.
Union Railways and Electronics and IT Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, stated in a written response to a Lok Sabha inquiry that certain social media accounts, many operating from abroad, were found to be disseminating harmful misinformation during the Pahalgam terror attack and ‘Operation Sindoor’.
He explained that under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act 2000, the government authorized necessary measures to block websites, social media accounts, and posts to protect the sovereignty and integrity of India, its defense, state security, and public order.
On April 26, 2025, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued a guidance to all media outlets to avoid live coverage of defense operations and security forces movements to safeguard national security.
During Operation Sindoor, a dedicated Control Room was set up for enhanced coordination among various departments. This Control Room operated round-the-clock, ensuring real-time information was shared with all media stakeholders.
The minister added that this Control Room included representatives from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, alongside officials from various government media units and the Press Information Bureau (PIB). They actively identified social media posts spreading fake news and misinformation.
The Fact Check Unit under the PIB vigilantly monitored social media and online news sources in real-time to identify fake images, edited videos, misleading narratives, and any manipulated content aimed at undermining the operation's goals, government agencies, or security forces, Vaishnaw stated.
This unit countered Pakistani propaganda against India and its armed forces, fact-checking numerous posts that spread falsehoods. The links associated with misinformation regarding ‘Operation Sindoor’ that were verified by the FCU were quickly shared with relevant intermediaries for prompt action.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the government's proactive measures in ensuring national integrity. 'Operation Sindoor' reflects a commitment to combat misinformation and safeguard public discourse. Upholding transparency and truth is essential in these challenging times, and the government’s actions serve the collective interest of the nation.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
Operation Sindoor is a government initiative aimed at blocking URLs that spread false or misleading information, particularly targeting anti-India narratives.
How many URLs were blocked during this operation?
Over 1,400 URLs were blocked as part of the initiative.
What types of content were targeted?
The operation focused on content that included false, misleading, and anti-India narratives, especially from Pakistan-based accounts.
Who monitored the social media content?
The Fact Check Unit under the Press Information Bureau actively monitored social media for fake news and misinformation.
What measures were taken to ensure national security?
The government issued orders under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act to block harmful content in the interest of national security.
