Fact Check: No, Shashi Tharoor did not praise Pakistan after T20 World Cup

A video circulating on social media claims that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised Pakistan following the T20 World Cup, suggesting a sudden “U-turn” in his stance. However, a fact check has found the video to be manipulated.

According to an investigation by India Today Fact Check, the viral clip was altered using AI-based tools to distort Tharoor’s original remarks. The manipulated video falsely portrays him as making statements that he never actually said.

What the viral claim alleged

The video, widely shared across social platforms, appeared to show Tharoor commending Pakistan’s performance after the T20 World Cup and making remarks that contradicted his earlier views. The clip quickly gained traction, with users accusing him of changing his position.

What the investigation found

The fact-check team determined that:

• The audio in the viral clip had been synthetically altered using AI technology.

• The original footage was edited and recontextualised.

• There is no verified record of Tharoor making the statements attributed to him in the viral version.

Tharoor’s office also confirmed that the video was fake and had been manipulated to mislead viewers.

Rising concern over AI-manipulated content

The incident highlights growing concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence tools to create deepfake-style content. Experts warn that such altered videos can spread misinformation rapidly, especially during high-profile events like international cricket tournaments.

Authorities and fact-checkers have urged the public to verify viral content before sharing and to rely on credible news sources.

The clarification from Tharoor’s office and the fact-check findings make it clear that the viral claim is false and based on digitally altered material.