Fact-check comes as political parties trade claims during ongoing Assembly elections; Centre reiterates no proposal to revise petrol, diesel rates.
New Delhi: In a decisive clarification, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Wednesday dismissed a widely circulated social media claim alleging a sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices, calling it “fake” and misleading.
The viral message, shared by several users including leaders from the Trinamool Congress, claimed that petrol prices had been raised by Rs 10 and diesel by Rs 12.50 through an official order. However, PIB firmly rejected the assertion, stating, “The Government of India has NOT issued any such order.”
Importantly, the clarification comes at a politically sensitive time, with Assembly elections underway in several states, including West Bengal. As a result, the misinformation quickly gained traction online, fuelling speculation and public concern.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi warned of a possible price hike after polling concludes, alleging that the government may pass on rising crude oil costs to consumers. However, government officials have countered these claims, reiterating that “there is no proposal to increase petrol and diesel prices.”
Additionally, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has previously termed similar reports “mischievous and misleading,” emphasising that retail fuel prices have remained unchanged for nearly four years despite global volatility.
Against the backdrop of rising crude oil prices due to tensions in West Asia, authorities have urged citizens to rely only on verified sources. “Always verify such news through official channels,” PIB advised, cautioning against the spread of unverified information.
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