Pune residents faced unprecedented panic on Monday as artificial intelligence-generated videos and fabricated messages about a leopard sighting flooded social media platforms, creating widespread confusion in Aundh's residential areas.
Forest Official Sounds Alarm on Digital Misinformation
Regional forest officer Manoj Barbole expressed serious concern about the rapidly spreading fake content, coming just a day after the genuine leopard sighting in a housing society. "Many WhatsApp messages with fake pictures of the leopard being seen at several places are coming in different groups of housing societies," Barbole stated. He emphasized that these forwards were causing unnecessary panic and fear among residents.
The officer made a strong appeal to the public, warning that "things can go out of hand because of this" irresponsible behavior. His statement came as authorities struggled to contain both the animal situation and the digital misinformation epidemic.
Political Leaders and Activists Join the Fight Against Fake News
Shivajinagar MLA Siddharth Shirole confirmed awareness of the fake videos and messages circulating among citizens. "People indulging in the same should understand the seriousness of the situation and refrain from these," Shirole asserted. He stressed that only information from credible officials should be taken seriously during such sensitive situations.
The MLA revealed that the situation was being closely monitored at the highest levels, with information about the leopard sighting and subsequent actions being formally communicated to the chief minister's office.
Local activist Mahesh Galande highlighted how the fake messages were creating confusion among residents. He called for authorities to provide constant updates through official platforms of the civic administration and local police to counter the misinformation.
Housing Societies Take Precautionary Measures Amid Chaos
Sital Ahuja, the chairman of Singh Society, detailed the precautionary measures being implemented in response to both the real threat and the digital misinformation. "We have closed the clubhouse, swimming pool and the garden area at 6pm on Monday again," Ahuja confirmed.
He revealed the additional challenge posed by false information, noting that "some messages were getting circulated about the leopard being caught, but these turned out to be fake." This demonstrates how misinformation complicated the actual safety measures being taken by the society.
Former corporator from the Aundh area, Archana Musale, assured residents that she was maintaining regular contact with concerned authorities in the forest department to ensure proper coordination and accurate information flow.
The incident highlights the growing challenge authorities face in managing both real-world emergencies and the digital misinformation that can amplify public panic during critical situations.
