Fact-checking reveals misinformation campaign.

The digital age has made the dissemination of news faster, but it also brings challenges like the spread of misinformation. Recently, Infosys founder Narayana Murthy found himself at the center of such a controversy when a fake news report claimed he advocated for "limited interaction between young boys and girls." This baseless claim gained traction online, prompting a detailed fact-check by the Press Trust of India (PTI), which exposed the falsehood.

The Genesis of the Fake News

The controversy began on January 7, 2025, when a user on the social media platform 'X' (formerly Twitter) shared a screenshot purportedly from the Hindustan Times. The post read:

"Another statement from Mr. Murthy. Is Narayana Murthy okay? (sic)"

The screenshot alleged that Murthy had made a controversial statement about limiting interactions between young boys and girls. Despite its questionable authenticity, the screenshot quickly garnered over 3,000 views, with many users accepting it at face value and sharing it further.

PTI's Investigation: Setting the Record Straight

To uncover the truth, PTI Fact Check conducted a thorough investigation. Here are the steps and findings of their inquiry:

1. Google Search Verification:
   Using relevant keywords, PTI conducted a search to find any credible reports about Narayana Murthy making such a statement. The search yielded no results, suggesting the claim lacked authenticity.

2. Website Scrutiny:
   PTI then searched the Hindustan Times website for the keyword "Narayana Murthy." This revealed legitimate articles using the same image featured in the viral screenshot. One article, published on December 16, 2024, focused on Murthy's controversial statement encouraging young Indians to work 70 hours a week. However, it made no reference to limiting interactions between genders.

3. Comparative Analysis:
   Comparing the viral screenshot with the genuine article revealed inconsistencies. Unlike legitimate reports, the viral screenshot lacked critical details like publication date and time, further indicating tampering.

Hindustan Times Responds

The Hindustan Times quickly addressed the issue via their official 'X' account, where they confirmed the screenshot was fake. On January 7, they tweeted:

"A screenshot of a purported HT story is circulating online, claiming that Narayana Murthy advocated for limited interaction between young boys and girls. We confirm that the screenshot is photoshopped and the report is fake."

Additionally, the publication announced that their legal team was pursuing the matter, emphasizing their commitment to holding those responsible accountable.

Wider Implications of Fake News

This incident highlights the dangers of misinformation in the digital era:

• Erosion of Credibility: False claims can damage the reputation of public figures, misinform the public, and distort societal discourse.
• Legal Repercussions: Publications like the Hindustan Times are increasingly proactive in combating fake news, pursuing legal action against perpetrators.