Shah Rukh Khan Jantar Mantar Protest: Truth Behind Viral Screenshot

Viral Screenshot Sparks Confusion

A screenshot of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan holding a placard at what appeared to be a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi began circulating on social media late Wednesday. The image quickly gained traction, with many users claiming the actor had openly supported the ongoing protest by the Confederation of Indian Journalists (CJP).

The screenshot showed Khan standing in a crowd, holding a sign that read 'Support CJP Protest.' The post was shared widely on platforms like X and WhatsApp, leading to a flurry of reactions from fans and political commentators.

Fact-Check Reveals Doctored Image

A closer examination by ABP Live English and other fact-checking units has revealed that the image is a fabrication. The original photograph dates back to 2018, when Shah Rukh Khan attended a public event in Mumbai unrelated to any protest.

In the original image, Khan was holding a blank sheet of paper, which was digitally altered in the viral version to include the pro-CJP message. The background and the crowd in the photo were also lifted from a separate 2019 rally, further confirming the composite nature of the screenshot.

No Official Statement from Khan

Shah Rukh Khan's representatives have not issued any statement regarding the protest or the viral image. The actor has a history of staying away from political controversies, and his social media accounts have remained focused on his film projects and philanthropic work.

The CJP has also not claimed any endorsement from the actor. Officials from the protest site said they had no record of Khan visiting Jantar Mantar in recent weeks.

Pattern of Misinformation

This incident is part of a broader pattern of misinformation targeting public figures during high-profile protests. In recent months, similar doctored images have falsely linked celebrities like Aamir Khan and Priyanka Chopra to various political movements.

Digital forensics experts warn that AI tools and basic photo-editing software make it easier than ever to create convincing fakes. They advise readers to verify images through reverse-image searches and to rely on official statements before sharing.

The viral screenshot has since been flagged as false by multiple fact-checking platforms, and some original posts have been deleted or labeled as misleading.

What Happens Next

As the protest at Jantar Mantar continues, authorities and media watchdogs are urging the public to cross-check any viral claims, especially those involving high-profile personalities. Shah Rukh Khan's team is expected to issue a denial if the misinformation persists.