Authors
Vasudha noticed the growing problem of mis/disinformation online after studying New Media at ACJ in Chennai and became interested in separating facts from fiction. She is interested in learning how global issues affect individuals on a micro level. Before joining Newschecker’s English team, she was working with Latestly.
Pankaj Menon is a fact-checker based out of Delhi who enjoys ‘digital sleuthing’ and calling out misinformation. He has completed his MA in International Relations from Madras University and has worked with organisations like NDTV, Times Now and Deccan Chronicle online in the past.
Claim
Photo of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi wearing a crucifix during her Kerala visit.
Such posts can be seen here, here and here.
Fact
A Google lens search on the viral photograph purportedly showing Priyanka Gandhi wearing a crucifix led us to a report by NDTV, dated February 18, 2017. It featured a similar photo of the Congress leader with the caption, “UP elections 2017: Priyanka Gandhi made her first public appearance in Raebareli on Friday.”
On comparing the viral photo with the image in the NDTV article, we found the former to be edited. A leaf-shaped locket around Gandhi’s neck has been digitally replaced by a crucifix associated with the Christian religion.
We found multiple other photographs of Gandhi, such as this, this and this, from the same event in February 2017, where she can be seen wearing the necklace with a leaf shaped pendant, further confirming that the viral image has been edited.
The actual image was also listed on Getty Images, with the description, “Indian Congress Party leader Priyanka Gandhi arrives at a rally held to support party candidates during the ongoing Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections at Rae Bareli on February 17, 2017…”
On verifying the image of Gandhi wearing the Rudraksha mala, we found several reports carrying similar images, from her visit to Varanasi in 2019. Such photos/videos can be seen here, here and here.
Also Read: Is Land Under Waqf Board In India Larger Than The Size Of Pakistan? No, Viral Claim Is False
Hence, a photograph from UP has been digitally edited to show Priyanka Gandhi wearing a crucifix during her campaign for Wayanad bypolls.
Result: Altered Photo
Sources
Report By NDTV, Dated February 18, 2017
Getty Images
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Authors
Vasudha noticed the growing problem of mis/disinformation online after studying New Media at ACJ in Chennai and became interested in separating facts from fiction. She is interested in learning how global issues affect individuals on a micro level. Before joining Newschecker’s English team, she was working with Latestly.
Pankaj Menon is a fact-checker based out of Delhi who enjoys ‘digital sleuthing’ and calling out misinformation. He has completed his MA in International Relations from Madras University and has worked with organisations like NDTV, Times Now and Deccan Chronicle online in the past.
