Jammu Kashmir: Admin Seeks Proof After ‘Lion Sighting’ Claims Spark Panic and Social Media Rumours | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The administration in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir has sought evidence from individuals who claimed that a lion was sighted in Banwat village, after the reports triggered panic among locals and spread rapidly on social media.

In a notice issued by the Office of the Tehsildar Haveli, officials said certain persons had publicly stated, including through interviews and social media platforms, that a lion had been seen in the village, allegedly based on information provided by two Power Development Department daily wagers.

However, preliminary verification conducted at the local level has found the claims to be false, misleading and without any credible basis. Authorities noted that no such wild animal is known to exist or has been reported in the Pir Panjal region.

The notice warned that circulating unverified information causing public alarm amounts to rumour-mongering and may attract legal action under relevant provisions of law.

Those who made public claims regarding the alleged sighting have been directed to submit supporting evidence within 24 hours. Failure to do so will lead authorities to presume that the information was deliberately spread to mislead the public and create unnecessary panic.

The administration has also appealed to the public to refrain from sharing unverified content on social media and to maintain peace and public order.