A viral screenshot claiming actress Deepika Padukone shared an Instagram Story supporting activist Sonam Wangchuk has been confirmed to be fake, with no evidence that the post was ever published on her verified social media accounts.
The screenshot circulating across social media alleges that the actress reposted a message about Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike with the caption, "He is fasting. We are scrolling," alongside remarks criticising the government's response.
The fabricated post also included the statements: "Why is no one speaking about this? We are living through the darkest hour of democracy" and "No matter how many films are made to glorify a failed leader, the reality remains unchanged."
However, the alleged Instagram Story does not appear on any of Deepika Padukone's verified accounts, and multiple reports indicate the screenshot was digitally altered.
No public statement from Deepika
The actress has not publicly commented on Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike.
Other leading Bollywood stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Alia Bhatt, have also remained silent on the issue, which may have contributed to the fake post appearing believable to many social media users.
Not the first fake post
This is not the first time Deepika Padukone has been targeted by fabricated social media content.
Earlier this year, another fake screenshot falsely claimed the actress had reviewed Ranveer Singh's film Dhurandhar: The Revenge. That image also spread widely online before being debunked.
Celebrities who have spoken out
While several Bollywood stars have stayed silent, filmmaker Anurag Kashyap publicly described Wangchuk as a "braveheart."
Actors Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Omi Vaidya, and singer Kaka have also expressed support for the activist.
Wangchuk is currently on the 18th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.
Meanwhile, a petition has reportedly been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking permission for force-feeding, citing concerns over Wangchuk's deteriorating health.
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