Controversy Surrounds Upendra Dwivedi Amid Viral Deepfake Video
A viral video has sparked significant controversy, falsely claiming that General Upendra Dwivedi admitted that India shared the location of an Iranian naval ship with Israel. The Iranian vessel, known as the IRIS Dena, was reportedly torpedoed by a US submarine, leading to widespread discussions across social media platforms.
The video has garnered over 43,500 views and has been reshared approximately 400 times, indicating a substantial reach and impact. However, the Press Information Bureau has confirmed that the video is a deepfake, digitally manipulated to misrepresent General Dwivedi’s statements. In a statement, the PIB Fact Check warned, “🚨 Deepfake Video Alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts are sharing a digitally manipulated video of the Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.”
During a visit to forward areas in Poonch district on February 7, 2026, General Dwivedi praised Indian troops for their high morale and operational readiness. He emphasized the importance of vigilance in the region, particularly in light of the recent events involving the IRIS Dena. “We are closely monitoring the situation in Iran. Israel is our close ally. The Iranian naval ship being sunk is indeed unfortunate, but it was done in international waters,” he stated.
In the same visit, General Dwivedi presented the Veteran Achiever Award to Subedar Parvez Ahmed, who served in the Indian Army for 28 years before retiring in March 2019. This recognition underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to honoring its veterans while navigating complex geopolitical challenges.
Historically, the IRIS Dena had been stationed in the Indian Ocean after participating in a naval event in Visakhapatnam. The vessel’s presence in the region has raised tensions, particularly given the strategic alliances between India, Israel, and the United States. General Dwivedi’s comments suggest a shift in India’s approach to maritime security and intelligence sharing.
As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the Indian government will respond to the misinformation spread by the deepfake video. The implications of such digital manipulation could affect public perception and international relations, particularly in the context of India’s strategic partnerships.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the Iranian naval ship’s operations and the circumstances surrounding its sinking. However, the incident highlights the increasing relevance of digital media in shaping narratives and the importance of verifying information in an era of widespread misinformation.
