Overview
- The department confirmed the widely shared image claiming a tiger sighting in Junnar, Pune district, was fabricated using artificial intelligence.
- Investigators traced the post to a resident of Mangrul in Aurangabad district, who provided a written admission that the picture was not genuine.
- Authorities said the false claim spread across social media and caused unnecessary alarm among local residents.
- Forest officials urged the public and media to verify information before sharing and cautioned that unverified posts can disrupt social harmony and daily life.
- A notice was issued to the individual, and officials warned that spreading misinformation is punishable under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and Information Technology Act, carrying potential jail time and fines.