On May 27, 2026, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit took to social media to debunk a misleading video that falsely attributed remarks to Nagraj Naidu Kakanur, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The video, which circulated widely on platforms like X, was manipulated to suggest that Kakanur claimed, "Even if Quad is over, India partners with Israel and Israel alone controls the USA, so India also controls the USA." This statement, however, was entirely fabricated and part of a broader attempt to mislead the public.
PIB Fact Check emphasized that the video was generated using artificial intelligence technology and warned citizens about the dangers of misinformation. They stated, "Deep Fake Video Alert! Pakistani propaganda accounts are circulating a digitally altered video of Additional Secretary (AMS – USA & Canada), MEA, falsely attributing fabricated remarks to him." The official body also shared the link to the original, unedited video and encouraged viewers to report any suspicious content related to government officials.
- AI-generated misinformation — The viral video was digitally altered to misrepresent Kakanur’s statements.
- Original video context — In reality, Kakanur discussed critical minerals and global supply chains, not geopolitical control.
- Public awareness campaign — PIB urged citizens to verify information from authentic sources before sharing online.
The misleading video suggested that an Indian diplomat had claimed total control over US President Donald Trump through Israel, even in the event of the Quad alliance's dissolution. In the manipulated clip, Kakanur was falsely heard making inflammatory remarks regarding the Quad grouping and India’s relationship with Israel and the United States. The real context of Kakanur's statements revolved around the significance of critical minerals, rare earth resources, and the need for global supply chain resilience.
In his original speech, Kakanur stated, “Discussion around critical minerals and rare earths has gained immense traction. The whole issue is how to ensure supply chain resiliency.” He highlighted the challenges faced by countries in processing these essential materials, emphasizing that not all nations have invested adequately in this area. The PIB's fact-checking initiative serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against misinformation in the digital age.
Furthermore, the Quad grouping recently announced new measures to enhance cooperation in critical minerals and energy during a meeting in New Delhi. Chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the meeting included foreign ministers from the US, Australia, and Japan. Jaishankar reiterated the shared responsibilities of the Quad nations in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, asserting that the region must remain a key driver for global stability and growth.
