25-04-2025
Fact Check: Viral Video Shows Man Impersonating Army Official, Alleges Security Lapses In Pahalgam Terror Attack
As the video went viral, it was also found that he was wearing a PC-DPM (Personal Clothing – Disruptive Pattern Material) camouflage introduced by the Indian Army in 2006.
A video showing a man wearing an Indian Army uniform is going viral online following the terrorist attack in Jammu-Kashmir's Pahalgam. The clip shows the man alleging security lapses.
As the video begins, the man introduces himself as Ashok Kumar, an official of the Indian Army. He alleges that the media's portrayal of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam is not the 'complete truth".
Initially shared from the X handle @War_Analysts, the clip is making the rounds on social media platforms.
As the video started being widely circulated online, it was found to be 'fake". Media reports not only claimed that the man seen in the clip was not associated with the Indian Army, but on a close look at his combat dress, it was also found that he was wearing a PC-DPM (Personal Clothing – Disruptive Pattern Material) camouflage introduced by the Indian Army in 2006.
The Indian Army uniform was replaced in January 2022 by a pixelated, digitally disruptive design. Also, a website that provides information on the Indian Army's uniform patterns over the years. The uniform seen in the viral video resembles the older design.
A deadly attack by terrorist in Jammu-Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 left 26 tourists dead. The incident drew global attention with world leaders condemning the attack and sharing condolences to the deceased.
India too reacted sharply, downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan. Centre suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari border and cancelled all visas of Pakistani nationals.
On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah talked to the Chief Ministers of all the steps and asked them to identify Pakistani nationals residing in their respective states and send them back.
Hours after his directions, India revoked all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals, except for long-term visas and diplomatic and official visas, effective from April 27, 2025.
