In his address to the nation on coronavirus pandemic on Tuesday, 24 March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged people to beware of fake news and rumours being spread around the virus outbreak.
“In times like these, rumours travel fast. I request people to steer clear of rumours and superstitions and follow advice by the government and healthcare experts.”Narendra Modi, Prime Minister
In his appeal, the Prime Minister emphasised the need to consume information only from verified and authorised sources and advised people against self-medication.
The warning comes as misinformation around the virus has flooded social media platforms and is keeping fact-checkers on their toes.
Modi announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown which will come into force from midnight, Tuesday. Modi urged people to stay put where they are. “If India fails to observe the lockdown for 21 days, the country will be set back by 21 years,” he said.
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