Claim: On the social media platform Twitter (X), a user with the handle @ShahzadGill202 shared a screenshot allegedly taken from senior journalist HamidMir‘s account. In the screenshot, Hamid Mir was seen addressing RanaSanaullah with a strong tone, allegedly saying: “Rana Sahab, it’s been a week since my challenge, but you haven’t responded. Now here’s the second news: after NawazSharifMNS, CMShehbaz also went to jail to meet ImranKhanPTI. He offered negotiations, but Imran rejected them, saying he won’t talk to thieves. Please come to my show and prove me wrong, or accept that your entire state depends on Prisoner No. 804.” ShahzadGill202 shared the screenshot along with the caption: “Big News: Senior journalist HamidMir issues a major challenge to RanaSanaullah.” The post quickly gained traction on social media, going viral within hours. It sparked intense political discourse, with many users accepting the screenshot as authentic and engaging in widespread speculation regarding its implications.
Fact-Check: Following our team’s investigation, it was revealed that the claim is false and the viral screenshot has been digitally altered. Detailed findings are outlined below: 1. No Original Tweet Found: Our team reviewed HamidMir’s official Twitter (X) account, where no such tweet was found. He neither issued such a statement nor made such remarks in any program. This confirms that the viral content did not originate from his verified account.
2. Technical Analysis of the Viral Screenshot: A detailed technical analysis of the viral screenshot confirmed that it was digitally altered. A fabricated statement was falsely attributed to HamidMir, and a fake screenshot was created to make it appear as though it was posted from his official account. This doctored image was then circulated on social media to mislead the public and spread false information.
3. Official Denial by Hamid Mir: Senior journalist HamidMir publicly denied the screenshot by posting on his verified Twitter account: “This is a fake screenshot. Please don’t share it again.” This direct statement is strong evidence that the viral screenshot is fake and was deliberately used to spread misinformation.
4. Nature and Credibility of the Source Account: The twitter account @ShahzadGill202 that originally uploaded the doctored screenshot was found, upon investigation, to frequently post content in support of PTIofficial, its leadership and their narratives—often publishing controversial or critical posts about political opponents. This suggests that the fake screenshot was likely fabricated to serve a political agenda.
Conclusion: It is now conclusively proven that the screenshot was doctored. With HamidMir’s clear denial, there is no doubt that the statement attributed to him was false. This misinformation appears to have been created with political motives to mislead public opinion. We urge social media users to verify any statement or screenshot before sharing, to prevent the spread of fabricated narratives in society.
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