Viral NDTV Video About Tejas Jet Clearance Proved Fake

New Delhi, November 28, 2025: In the aftermath of a recent accident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow, a digitally manipulated video clip has been widely circulated across social media platforms. The footage allegedly features an NDTV news anchor reporting a shocking claim: that the crashed Tejas jet had “not been technically cleared to fly” according to an internal report. This narrative was quickly amplified by numerous accounts, attempting to cast serious doubt on the airworthiness of the indigenously built Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

AI Manipulation Exposed

The sensational claim contained within the viral video has been conclusively debunked by multiple fact-checking organizations and the government’s own Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit. Detailed analysis of the clip confirms that the video is digitally manipulated. While the visuals of the anchor are authentic, the audio, which contains the explosive claim about the lack of clearance, has been artificially generated using AI technology. Evidence of the manipulation includes the anchor’s unnatural speech patterns, rigid delivery, and discrepancies in facial movements, all of which are inconsistent with genuine broadcasting.

Also Read: Mammoth Queue Outside Magnolia Bakery

Original Report Found Untainted

A comprehensive search for the original news broadcast was conducted, leading to the authentic report aired by NDTV. It was verified that the original NDTV report regarding the Tejas crash, which was uploaded soon after the incident, made no mention whatsoever of any internal report, lack of flight clearance, or claims of political pressure for the jet to take off.

In the actual broadcast, the crash was discussed in the context of the pilot’s final manoeuvre, aligning with initial assessments provided by aviation experts. The fake video, therefore, was created by maliciously overlaying AI-generated audio onto genuine news footage to manufacture a false narrative.

The Call for Responsible Sharing

This instance of deliberate fabrication highlights the increasing danger posed by deepfake technology in spreading misinformation, particularly in sensitive areas like national defense and aviation safety. The intention behind the video was clearly to undermine confidence in the Tejas programme, an integral component of India’s indigenous defense capabilities.

The prompt and decisive action taken by fact-checkers and authorities to expose the fake video serves as a critical measure against foreign and domestic attempts at disinformation campaigns. The public is strongly urged to verify all claims related to critical national assets through credible sources before sharing, ensuring that integrity and truth are maintained in the digital space.