Harbhajan Singh faces backlash after sharing 'zombie drug' video wrongly linked to Punjab

Former Indian cricketer and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh has come under criticism after sharing a viral video on social media that he claimed reflected Punjab's drug problem. The footage was later fact-checked by Punjab Police, which clarified that it was recorded in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, and not in Punjab.

The incident has sparked political reactions, with Punjab government leaders accusing the BJP MP of sharing misleading information, while authorities reiterated the importance of verifying content before posting it online.

Viral video incorrectly linked to Punjab

Harbhajan Singh shared a video showing two men appearing disoriented on a roadside, describing it as evidence of the worsening drug crisis in Punjab.

In his social media post, he expressed concern over alleged drug addiction among Punjab's youth and appealed for efforts to protect the state's younger generation.

However, the authenticity of the video's location was soon questioned by social media users.

Punjab Police issues fact-check

Punjab Police responded by clarifying that the viral footage did not originate from Punjab.

According to the police, the video was recorded in Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan and had no connection with Punjab or the Punjab Police.

Authorities also noted that adding Punjabi audio to a video does not establish that it was filmed in Punjab, urging users to verify information before sharing it online.

Punjab government criticises Harbhajan Singh

The clarification triggered strong political reactions from leaders of the Punjab government.

State ministers accused Harbhajan Singh of sharing misleading content that portrayed Punjab negatively and alleged that the post damaged the state's image.

The criticism also reignited political debate over the issue of drug abuse and misinformation on social media.

What is the 'zombie drug'?

The term "zombie drug" is commonly used to describe xylazine, a veterinary sedative that has increasingly been detected in illegal drug supplies in some countries.

Medical experts and law enforcement agencies caution that a person's appearance or unusual behaviour alone cannot confirm xylazine use.

Authorities have repeatedly warned against attributing viral videos to specific drugs without scientific evidence or official investigation.

Misinformation and viral videos

Fact-checking agencies and police departments have increasingly intervened in viral social media posts that incorrectly identify locations or make unverified claims.

Officials advise users to verify the origin and authenticity of videos before sharing them, particularly when they concern public safety or sensitive issues.

The latest incident highlights the growing importance of responsible social media use and fact verification.

Key Highlights

• Harbhajan Singh shared a viral video claiming it showed Punjab's drug crisis.
• Punjab Police clarified the footage was actually recorded in Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar.
• Authorities said the video had no connection with Punjab.
• The clarification led to political criticism from Punjab government leaders.
• Police urged users to verify information before sharing social media content.
• The term "zombie drug" generally refers to xylazine.
• Experts say unusual behaviour alone cannot confirm xylazine use.
• The incident has renewed focus on misinformation and responsible social media sharing.

FAQs

1. Why is Harbhajan Singh facing criticism?

He shared a viral video claiming it showed Punjab's drug crisis, but authorities later clarified that the footage was from Rajasthan.

2. Where was the viral video actually recorded?

Punjab Police said the video was recorded in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan.

3. Did Punjab Police respond to the viral post?

Yes. Punjab Police issued a fact-check stating that the video had no connection with Punjab.

4. What did Harbhajan Singh claim?

He expressed concern over Punjab's alleged drug problem after sharing the viral footage.

5. What is the 'zombie drug'?

The term commonly refers to xylazine, a veterinary sedative that has been found mixed with illegal drugs in some regions.

6. Does unusual behaviour prove someone has taken xylazine?

No. Authorities and medical experts say appearance alone cannot determine whether someone is under the influence of a specific drug.

7. Why is the video controversial?

It was incorrectly presented as being from Punjab despite being recorded in Rajasthan.

8. What was Punjab government's response?

State ministers criticised Harbhajan Singh and accused him of spreading misleading information about Punjab.

9. Why is fact-checking important in viral videos?

Fact-checking helps prevent the spread of misinformation and ensures that content is accurately represented.

10. What lesson does this incident highlight?

It underscores the importance of verifying the source and authenticity of social media content before sharing it publicly.