Did Pakistan Capture Indian Female Pilot? Govt Fact-Checks Viral Claims

The government has fact-checked a viral claim about an Indian female Indian Air Force pilot being captured by Pakistan. The image being circulated online is from June 2023, when an IAF Kiran trainer jet crashed in Karnataka. Two pilots of the lightweight aircraft (HAL HJT-16 Kiran) had a fortunate escape after ejecting from their plane before it crashed.

Reacting to false claims, the government said misinformation is being spread by pro-Pakistan handles. "Verify before you share. Don't fall for propaganda," it added.

Viral claim about Indian female Air Force pilot captured by Pakistan🚨#PIBFactCheck

❌ FAKE NEWS!

✅ The image being circulated is from June 2023 and thus OLD!
🔗https://t.co/eZdCZMhKLN

🔎Misinformation is being spread by pro-Pakistan handles. Verify before you share. Don't… pic.twitter.com/P9GsmxSmyU

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025

The government also warned against believing in combat gaming footage that is being shared as real footage of the recent India-Pakistan conflict. "Please don't fall prey to such propaganda posts," it urged social media users.

Another fake message is being shared with a verified link of the Ministry of Defence WhatsApp Channel. The message reads that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given instructions for civil preparedness in view of the India-Pakistan situation.

Fake message shared with verified link of MoD WhatsApp Channel

A message is circulating on #WhatsApp in the name of @DefenceMinIndia giving instructions for civil preparedness in view of the India-Pakistan situation#PIBFactCheck

❌ This message is #fake

✅ The Government… pic.twitter.com/UevcQUNVVl

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025

fact-check