Fake blackout rumours spark panic in Sirsa; two control rooms set up

A wave of panic swept through Sirsa district on Thursday night after fake messages about a blackout began circulating on social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Though no such announcement was made by authorities, the rumours triggered fear among residents, affecting both urban and rural areas.

In response, the district administration swiftly set up two 24/7 emergency control rooms to provide information and address any real emergencies. Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma said, “One control room has been established at Room No. 18 in the Mini Secretariat (Contact: 01666-248882), and the second, under civil defence, is in Room No. 11 of the Superintendent of Police’s office (Contacts: 01666-247251, 01666-248101).” He urged people not to fall for rumours and to rely only on verified information.

The misinformation had immediate consequences. Several weddings in the city saw guests leave abruptly. At a marriage palace on Hisar Road, attendees rushed home after blackout alerts went viral. A night cricket match was also halted mid-way as fear spread. In villages, gurdwaras made public announcements urging people to turn off lights. Some even drove vehicles without headlights to avoid attention.

By 11 pm, many homes and streets were plunged into darkness. In extreme cases, villagers used cloth or cranes to cover or remove solar lights. Bhagat Singh from Jorkian village said, “As soon as the blackout message spread, we removed all solar lights, leaving the area completely dark.”

Sirsa resident Balwinder Singh criticised sections of the media for spreading panic. “This kind of false reporting weakens the country. Strict action must be taken,” he said.

Superintendent of Police Dr Mayank Gupta said, “The police are alert. People should not panic or trust unverified posts.”

Haryana Tribune