A claim does not become true because many videos repeat it. Our fact-check process asks what was said, when it was said, who had authority to say it and whether an applicable official document confirms implementation.
Claims we prioritise
We focus on claims that could change a reader’s action: benefit amounts, application dates, eligibility, new forms, payment delays, government orders, beneficiary lists and support contacts.
Evidence hierarchy
- Applicable government order, department notice or official scheme portal.
- Official district or service notice within its stated scope.
- Direct statement from a competent authority, checked in context.
- Reputable reporting that links or accurately identifies the primary material.
- Social posts, screenshots and videos as leads—not proof.
Labels
- Confirmed: supported by applicable primary evidence.
- Partly confirmed: one element is supported but the viral claim goes further.
- Unconfirmed: evidence is insufficient or only secondary.
- Misleading: a true fragment is presented without essential context.
- Incorrect: contradicted by reliable current evidence.
Corrections and challenges
Send the page URL, disputed claim and supporting source through the contact page. Material corrections follow our Corrections Policy.