New Delhi, May 3 (ANI): Amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan-based media outlets and coordinated social media networks have launched a disinformation campaign targeting senior officials of the Indian Armed Forces, sources revealed on Saturday.
The campaign allegedly involved the dissemination of false narratives about the reassignment and retirement of top military commanders, aiming to mislead the public and undermine confidence in India’s defence leadership.
According to sources, several Pakistan-based channels and troll networks falsely claimed that Lieutenant General DS Rana, Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency, had been “sacked” and “exiled” to Kala Pani in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to operational failures. In reality, Lt Gen Rana was promoted and appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), a prestigious tri-services post.
Another false claim circulated by Pakistan-based social media handles alleged that Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar had been removed from his role as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, due to failures linked to the Pahalgam incident. However, Lt Gen Kumar had retired with honour on April 30, 2025, following four decades of distinguished service. His scheduled retirement had been publicly announced well in advance.
Further disinformation targeted Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal SP Dharkar, with fake reports claiming he was dismissed for allegedly refusing to take military action against Pakistan. In fact, Air Marshal Dharkar completed his tenure and superannuated on April 30, 2025. His departure was marked by a ceremonial guard of honour and a tribute at the National War Memorial. Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari has since assumed the role of Vice Chief of the Air Staff.
Sources said that these fabricated stories are part of a deliberate “pattern of deception” aimed at sowing uncertainty about India’s military readiness and command structure. They noted that each disinformation episode followed India’s assertive diplomatic response to cross-border terrorism, suggesting a coordinated attempt by ISI-linked social media handles to influence public perception and morale.
In response, India’s Ministry of Defence and the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff issued swift rebuttals and public clarifications to counter the spread of these false narratives, ensuring that misinformation does not gain traction domestically.
The government has reiterated its commitment to transparency and operational continuity amid ongoing national security concerns.
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