A video circulating on social media has been misrepresented to falsely suggest that a Muslim vendor objected to the Indian flag being placed on his stall on the Independence Day. The video shows a fruit vendor, identified by his skull cap, protesting against people placing the national flag on his roadside coconut stall. A woman in a hijab is also visible in the footage, which led to claims that Muslims have an issue with the Indian flag, reported the Alt News.
Several social media users, including those known for spreading communal misinformation, amplified the video with misleading captions. For instance, Ajay Chauhan posted the video with a caption implying that Muslims would not even accept the Indian tricolour. Similarly, an account named “Trunicle” shared the video with the claim that the vendor objected to the flag on his premises, though the tweet was later deleted. Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Sadhvi Prachi also shared the clip, questioning the patriotism of the Muslim community.
Fact-Check Reveals Truth Behind the Video
A fact-check by Alt News uncovered the truth behind this viral video. A search for related keywords led to a longer version uploaded on a YouTube channel named “Ritik Kataria” on August 14, 2023. The channel, which regularly produces scripted content, made it clear that the video was staged.
The video intended to raise awareness about the correct way to display the Indian flag, emphasizing that it should always be placed at the highest position. It depicts a scripted argument between the vendor and customers, followed by a man dressed as a policeman intervening. The video concludes with the revelation that an Indian flag was already positioned at a higher place above the stall. At the end, the man in the police uniform extends Independence Day greetings on behalf of Haryana Police.
The individual portraying the Muslim vendor is actually Ritik Kataria, an actor who runs the channel. The person in the police uniform, whose nameplate reads “Amar Kataria,” is related to Ritik Kataria and is also involved in the production of the videos. The channel’s “About” section reveals that Amar Kataria is a sub-inspector in the Haryana Police with a keen interest in acting, further indicating the content is scripted.
Misleading Context Used to Stir Communal Tensions
Despite the video being a staged enactment aimed at promoting proper flag etiquette, several users shared it in a misleading context, attempting to portray it as evidence of the Muslim community’s disloyalty to the nation. This misrepresentation aims to fuel communal tensions and distrust.
Alt News also reviewed other videos on the channel, which depict similar scripted content featuring Amar Kataria acting in a police uniform. The content is produced to spread awareness or present a social message but is not intended as genuine documentation of real events.
The viral video claiming that a Muslim man objected to the Indian flag being placed on his stall is misleading and scripted. Misinterpretations of such videos only serve to promote false narratives and communal divisions. It is essential to verify the authenticity of content before drawing conclusions or sharing them on social media platforms.
